World Gym
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Fitness |
| Founded | 1976 |
| Founder | Joe Gold |
| Headquarters | Taichung , Taiwan |
Area served | Worldwide (200+ franchise locations on six continents) |
Key people | Cammilleri family (owners since 2009) |
| Products | Gym facilities, fitness equipment, workout accessories, nutritional supplements, apparel, group exercise classes, personalized coaching, martial arts training programs |
| Parent | World Gym Taiwan (acquired in October 2024) |
| Website | worldgym |
World Gym International LLC is a U.S.-based fitness center established in 1976 by Joe Gold, who is also recognized for creating Gold's Gym. Originating from Venice Beach, California, this gym became a hub for celebrities and elite bodybuilders such as Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno.
As of March 2021, World Gym had expanded to more than 200 franchise locations spanning six continents. Since its acquisition by the Cammilleri family in 2009, the company has prioritized international growth and the launch of regional flagship gyms to enhance its market position. Collaborations with partners like Life Fitness have been instrumental in driving expansion and maintaining competitive strength.
In October 2024, World Gym Taiwan purchased the parent company for US$9 million, resulting in the relocation of the global headquarters to Taichung. This transition underscores Taiwan’s growing prominence within the worldwide fitness sector and represents a pivotal development in World Gym’s corporate governance and global footprint.
History
Joe Gold initially founded Gold's Gym in 1965, setting a milestone in fitness history. After divesting Gold's Gym in 1973 and surrendering rights to his name, he established World Gym in Santa Monica. The gym subsequently relocated to Venice and Marina Del Rey before ceasing operations following Gold’s passing in 2004. Ownership transferred to the Cammilleri family in 2009.
Gold’s original facility played a crucial role in bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger’s career, serving as his training ground during his ascent as Mr. Olympia and Hollywood star. Schwarzenegger’s workouts at Gold’s Gym were documented in the 1977 film Pumping Iron. At that time, the gym reportedly earned $20 million in revenue before costs.
In 2019, World Gym broadened its international reach by inaugurating a new site in Sherbrooke, Quebec, strengthening its presence within the North American market.
Products and services
World Gym International provides an extensive range of fitness products and services, including workout accessories such as sports bags, hydration bottles, nutritional supplements, apparel, and other gear. The company’s franchise model facilitates business development and expansion.
Its offerings include fully equipped gym facilities, sales of fitness equipment, group exercise classes, personalized fitness and nutrition coaching, along with specialized training programs in mixed martial arts, boxing, and kickboxing. Furthermore, World Gym organizes athletic events and competitions centered on bodybuilding and martial arts, bolstering its market influence and competitive edge.
List of countries
World Gym maintains over 50 franchised gyms across upwards of 20 nations and territories, covering major markets such as:
Joe Gold Lifetime Achievement Award
The Joe Gold Lifetime Achievement Award honors individuals with outstanding contributions to the fitness field. Established in 2012 during the World Gym International Convention, past honorees include notable figures like Ric Drasin, Lou Ferrigno, Jim Brown, and Mike Uretz.
Year Recipient 2015 Mike Uretz 2014 Jim Brown 2013 Lou Ferrigno 2012 Ric Drasin