FAME: good for the body

Couple bring all-natural health/fitness expo to T.O.

Photo by Robyn Blackstien

Jeffrey Kippel and Mindy Blackstien are the husband and wife team who founded the World Natural Sports Organization and FAME Media Group.

From a small fitness business in a Toronto basement to the international stage, Jeffrey Kippel and Mindy Blackstien have revolutionized the world of fitness in just eight years. Fueled by their bold determination and shared passion for all-natural training, this husband-and-wife duo has seen their brainchild, the World Natural Sports Organization (WNSO), blossom into a global force in the multi-billion dollar health and fitness industry.

Now known as FAME Media Group, the company continues to build a recognized brand synonymous with fitness, modeling and talent.

It all began in 1998 when Jeff and Mindy launched FAME: Fitness And Model Expo, a small event designed to provide a forum for all-natural athletes of all ages and experience levels to compete and excel. Though natural sports were not particularly in vogue at the time, this once small-time fitness show has grown to become one of the largest health and fitness events on the planet, drawing visitors, competitors and exhibitors from around the world.

Since then, Jeff and Mindy have continued to put Canada on the international map with the FAME World Tour series of competitions here at home and around the globe on five continents.

To date, over 7,500 competitors worldwide have taken part in these landmark events, with international finalists competing at the FAME World Championships held every year in Toronto at FAME: Fitness And Model Expo.

In an effort to spread the message of good health and fitness to an even wider audience across North America, FAME Media Group has launched five fitness and lifestyle magazines. (The premier issue of FAME Swimsuit Magazine is on newsstands now.)

Jeff and Mindy also started The FAME Agency, a full-service modeling and talent agency helping fit-bodied people and fitness professionals access opportunities in print, television, film and trade show work.

From elite athletes to beginners, FAME 2006 offers a world of opportunity for anyone interested in an active, healthy way of life. Besides the five competition stages, which include bodybuilding, fitness modeling, dance and martial arts, visitors can learn and grow with a wide variety of workshops, seminars and interactive demonstrations. Attendees can explore a host of fun and interesting fitness activities, attractions and services, including dance, yoga, baton twirling, nutrition, boxing, martial arts, obstacle courses, rock climbing, arm wrestling, holistic health, aerobics, modeling and talent agencies, auditions for new TV shows, celebrity autograph signings, photo shoots, personal training, weight loss help from thousands of weight loss specialists on-site, discount shopping, giveaways, franchise opportunities and more than 300 exhibitors. Guests will also have the unique opportunity to help put Toronto on the map as the Guinness Book of World Records audits a number of new fitness record attempts taking place at this year’s expo!

FAME 2006 takes place this Saturday and Sunday, June 17th and 18th at Toronto’s International Centre. FAME 2006 is one incredible action-, information-, and entertainment-packed weekend where healthy living, electrifying competition and celebrity guests come together to inspire and amaze. Whether you’re an elite athlete or taking your very first steps toward weight loss and a healthier lifestyle, FAME 2006 is for you!

Metro Toronto News Services