Gymshark

[6] Founded in June 2012 by Ben Francis and Lewis Morgan, the company was initially focused on crafting and distributing its own line of fitness wear.

[11] Francis studied at Aston University[11] before dropping out, and worked as a delivery driver for Pizza Hut when he first established the company.

[14] Initially, Francis manufactured the garments in his parents' garage on a made-to-sell basis using a sewing machine and screen printer he purchased with £1,000 of savings.

[15] In 2013, the company exhibited at the BodyPower fitness trade show at the NEC arena in Birmingham where it sold out of all its stock in the first day.

[16][14] When the company's revenue reached £250,000, Francis and Morgan both left university to focus on Gymshark full time.

[37] Gymshark sells fitness apparel for men and women[38] including workout vests, hoodies, t-shirts and leggings.

[40] The company does not rely substantially on brick-and-mortar stores but did open its first pop-up shop in London's Covent Garden in February 2020.

More recent Gymshark athletes include Francis Ngannou, Saffron Barker, GK Barry, Leana Deeb, Analis Cruz, Jessica Bickling, Gina Amin, Whitney Simmons, Joy Sistina, and many more.

January 2022 Gymshark released a video "United We Sweat", focusing on how the pandemic has forced people to have different versions of the gym.

"[43] In April 2022, the brand received backlash as a behind the scenes shoot showed no models over a UK 8, raising concerns about Gymshark's commitments to body inclusivity.

According to UK-based editorial Hyphen, Gymshark's collaboration with hijabi athletes has been praised for breaking down fitness barriers and advancing inclusivity.

[48] Through these partnerships, Gymshark has developed clothing lines tailored to modest dressing preferences, including hijab-friendly designs.

In August 2023, Gymshark unveiled a 3D billboard featuring Leana wearing a hijab, highlighting the brand's commitment to accommodating the religious practices of Muslim women during workouts and affirming their place within the community.

During these events people interested can meet and interact with Gymshark athletes, get city exclusive apparel, and compete for prizes.

[52] Their previous event Lift LA in August 2024 had partnerships with Alani Nu, Coffee Dose, Prime, SourStrips, Pressed, Hyperice, Beignet Box, and Go Greek.

Gymshark headquarters in Blythe Valley Park
Francis Ngannou - Gymshark Athlete & Professional Fighter
Saffron Barker - Gymshark Athlete