Tony Little is recognized worldwide as a personal trainer, creator of the Gazelle exercise machine and well-known face of the fitness industry. Tony's infomercials have been seen in 81 countries and have sold over $3 billion worth of products. He has a passion for living a healthy life and helping people achieve their fitness goals. This passion has shaped not only his personal life but his career as well.
The Beginning
Tony Little was born on Sept. 16, 1956 in Fremont, Ohio. Little relocated to Florida to live with family in 1974 and graduated from high school in 1975. Shortly after, Little began competing in and winning bodybuilding competitions. While competing, Little also obtained his personal trainer certification and began working in the fitness industry.
Life-Changing Moment
Six months prior to the 1983 Mr. America Bodybuilding Championship, Little's world was changed by an almost fatal motor vehicle accident. Little was left with cuts over his entire body, a dislocated knee, cracked vertebrae and two herniated discs after being blindsided by a school bus. Little competed despite his injuries and placed fifth overall. After the competition, Little slipped into depression and became addicted to pain medication.
Opportunity Knocks
Little was given the opportunity to produce a local cable show in 1985 after he raised $15,000. The show was a hit and he then developed a deal with the Home Shopping Network. He experienced great success in this partnership and branched into infomercials with QVC in 1993. This partnership flourished as well, launching a fitness career that earned Little numerous awards and records.
History Repeats
In 1996, history repeated itself when Little was involved in another serious car crash. One hundred eighty stitches were required to repair the damage done to his face, and four discs in his lower back were damaged. Little bounced back yet again in 1998 with the introduction of his Gazelle exercise machine. Little has shown his passion and drive to help others through his efforts in the fitness industry and continues to work in the field.
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