Joe Gold

American fitness promoter

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July 16, 2026

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Joe Gold was an American fitness promoter who opened Gold's Gym in Venice, California, in 1965. This gym became a world-famous fitness franchise, attracting notable figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger. After selling his business in 1977, Gold established World Gym International in Santa Monica, which also led to numerous franchises. Gold's Gym and World Gym International played a significant role in the growth of health clubs and the broader physical culture movement.12

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physical culture
Aerobics and health clubs
…was opened in 1965 by Joe Gold, an original member of Mae West’s troupe, in Venice, California. It attracted Schwarzenegger and other Weider stars and eventually spread to more than 500 facilities in more than 25 countries. In 1977, after selling his business, Gold established World Gym International in Santa…
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…was opened in 1965 by Joe Gold, an original member of Mae West’s troupe, in Venice, California. It attracted Schwarzenegger and other Weider stars and eventually spread to more than 500 facilities in more than 25 countries. In 1977, after selling his business, Gold established World Gym International in Santa…
Read More