History of World Gym

Building The Next Generation of Legends

Nearly Five Decades of Building Strength

For over 47 years, World Gym® has been helping people live fit, healthy lives. We’ve been a pillar of strength in the fitness industry while countless competitors and fitness concepts have come and gone. Our simple commitment to providing exactly what our members want and need to reach their fitness goals has sustained us throughout our history. We skip the trends and forego the fads to keep things simple—providing a serious gym for serious workouts. U.S.-owned and world-renowned, World Gym offers the big-box gym experience with a personalized touch.

History of World Gym

1970s

World Gym was born at Muscle Beach in Santa Monica, California. What began as a small gym filled with custom-made equipment became a destination for celebrity bodybuilders, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno, and Dave Draper.

1980s

By the early 1980s, World Gym was firmly established as a global fitness icon. The brand expanded with franchise locations across the United States and abroad. The personal fitness revolution was in full swing, fueled in large part by our convenient, affordable World Gym locations.

1990s

The 1990s saw a rapid evolution in the fitness industry. World Gym was at the forefront of this change by providing cutting-edge equipment, one-on-one coaching, and the best workout environments possible.

2000s and Today

The Cammilleri family acquired the World Gym brand and set their sights on bringing seriously fun fitness to all corners of the globe. World Gym has grown to more than 225 locations across six continents and continues to expand. With over 47 years of knowledge and experience, we’re poised to remain a powerful leader in the fitness world for decades to come.

Hear from Current Owners

Our gym franchise owners are creating their own legacies with World Gym. Learn about their experiences to get a better understanding of what you can expect as a franchisee.

  • “World Gym embraces it roots in Muscle Beach while continuing to innovate.   World Gym believes in seriously fun fitness, getting results for its members and supporting its franchisees in all aspects from staffing to equipment selection...”

    - Jon Davie

  • “World Gym has stayed true to fitness in a way that other brands don't. The company is always very steady, clear on direction and has consistent growth.”

    - Joe Talmadge

  • “There is not a better feeling in the world, when you have a corporate team that works their tail off for you.”

    - Michael Sanciprian
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