AceShowbiz -

Richard Simmons is not depressed. The fitness guru was reportedly depressed over his knee injury and the death of his dog, but his spokesperson Thomas Estey tells New York Daily News that, contrary to the rumor, "he is not clinically depressed or a shut-in or a recluse."

"The truth is very simple, he has a knee injury, and it's serious enough to keep him from doing what he loves most: exercising and motivating others," Estey says. Of the death of Simmons' pet, the publicist says, "The dog passed away a year and a half ago, it's not the issue. He hasn't lost weight recently either. He's presently at the same weight he was when he released his first 'Sweatin' to the Oldies' video."

"It would be like Tiger Woods having a shoulder injury that stopped him from golfing, but in this case it's compounded by a thousand because Richard has dedicated his life to others, and right now he can't exercise or travel and take his message to the people in person."

Simmons hasn't been seen in public for nearly a year, but his spokesperson insists, "In terms of him being out and about, he's going out. If he needs to wear a disguise, he'll wear a disguise. When you're Richard Simmons, it's not easy to get away with anonymity."

Simmons himself previously greeted his fans on Facebook, "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. Keep on sweatin'!"