Richard Simmons has reached out to fans and thanked them for their concern after a recent report suggested the fitness guru had sunk into a deep depression and become a virtual recluse.

Editors at Tmz.com reported this week (beg10Nov14) that Simmons had disappeared from the public eye due to a crippling bout of depression relating to a knee problem which left him housebound.

Simmons has now spoken out in a bid to reassure his fans, revealing he has been struggling with an injury.

In a post on Facebook.com, he writes, "I am so touched by the outpouring of love and concern I have received today. I have had a tough time dealing with this injury, as it is keeping me from doing what I truly love to do and that is to teach classes around the world. Make sure you keep Sweatin'!"

He adds in a message on Twitter.com, "Thank u soooooooo much to all of you for all ur (your) kind words today (sic)!!! xoxoxo."