Year began: 1965 Franchising since: 1980
Bodybuilders training outside on Muscle Beach were the first customers for the original Gold’s Gym when it opened in Venice, California, in 1965. With its intense, no-frills atmosphere, the gym soon became known as the “Mecca of Bodybuilding.” Arnold Schwarznegger’s movie “Pumping Iron” focused on Gold’s Gym, propelling it into the spotlight in 1975.
Gold’s Gym has been franchising since 1980, and franchises account for more than 90 percent of its locations. In addition to running the health club facilities, franchisees sell Gold’s Gym licensed apparel through their Pro Shops.
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