Stern's Gym: A Legacy in North Park, San Diego
The Early Days: Founding and Vision
Establishment in 1946
Stern's Gym was founded in 1946 by Leo Stern, a dedicated fitness enthusiast and former competitive weightlifter. Located in the heart of North Park, San Diego, the gym quickly became a community hub for fitness aficionados and novices alike.
Leo Stern’s Vision
Leo Stern envisioned a gym that was more than just a place to work out; he wanted to create a supportive environment where people could pursue their fitness goals with the guidance of knowledgeable trainers and a sense of camaraderie.
Leo Stern: Early Life and Influences
Early Life
Leo Stern was born in 1921, in Gardner, Kansas. At age two, he lost his father to a rural Kansas stockyard accident, leaving his mother and four children to fend for themselves. The family moved to San Diego, California, where Leo participated in wrestling, although his attempt to play high school football was limited by his 135-pound body weight.
Introduction to Weightlifting
In 1937, at age 18, Leo purchased a 130-pound Milo adjustable barbell and one dumbbell for $10.00 and started training with a classmate. 
In 1939, Stern and a few close friends formed the Hillcrest Barbell Club, with a dozen members. The neighborhood gym closed at the outbreak of World War II.
Inspiration from John Grimek
Leo's physical transformation began in 1940 when he witnessed legendary John Grimek, the AAU Mr. America winner, conduct an exhibition at the San Diego YMCA. Inspired by Grimek's performance, Stern was hooked.
Early Competitions and Military Service
In 1941, Leo captured the Mr. San Diego title and placed in the top five at the first Mr. California contest. Inducted into the United States Army Air Corps in 1942, Leo spent 39 months as a physical instructor at a base gym outside Las Vegas, Nevada, where he coached thousands of military personnel, including Clarence "Clancy" Ross, who won the 1945 AAU Mr. America contest.
The Transition: From Bowling Alley to Gym
Establishing the Gym
In 1946, Leo won the AAU Mr. California title and established the original Stern's Gym near San Diego's Hoover High School. He recalled working 90 hours a week for several months and earning a grand total of $50.00. At the end of its first year, Stern's Gym needed more space. Leo Stern leased the second floor of a building on Grenada Avenue in North Park, but the previous tenants, who operated a bowling alley and pool hall, refused to vacate. Stern and his friends bided their time. When the ex-tenants left the building one day, they quickly moved the bowling alley and pool hall out and relocated the gym in its place. Despite the initial challenges, the gym has remained at this location ever since.
Growth and Expansion
The Golden Era: 1950s to 1970s
Leo was featured on the cover of the 1950 Strength & Health magazine, with an inside statement crediting him "as one of America's outstanding physique champions and trainers."
During the 1950s and 1960s, Stern's Gym gained popularity, attracting members from all over San Diego, including Bill Pearl. The gym expanded its facilities, adding new equipment and offering a wider range of fitness classes. This period is often referred to as the Golden Era of Stern's Gym, marked by a surge in membership and community involvement.
Celebrity Members and High-Profile Visits
The gym's reputation for excellence attracted several high-profile athletes and celebrities, including legendary bodybuilders like Bill Pearl, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Lou Ferrigno. These visits further cemented its status as a premier fitness destination.
Innovations and Community Engagement
Introducing New Fitness Trends
Throughout the decades, Stern's Gym remained at the forefront of fitness trends. From the introduction of aerobics in the 1980s to the adoption of modern strength training techniques, the gym consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of its members.
Community Programs and Events
Stern's Gym was always more than just a fitness center; it was a vital part of the North Park community. The gym hosted numerous events, including charity fundraisers, fitness competitions, and wellness workshops, fostering a strong sense of community spirit.
The Famous Stairs
One iconic feature of Stern's Gym was its legendary stairs, renowned for their role in the rigorous training routines of many athletes. These stairs became a symbol of the gym's commitment to pushing its members to achieve their best.
Challenges and Resilience
Overcoming Economic Challenges
Like many businesses, Stern's Gym faced economic challenges, particularly during the recessions of the 1990s and the early 2000s. However, the gym's loyal membership base and adaptive strategies helped it to weather these storms and emerge stronger.
Upgrades and Changes Over the Decades
For twenty years, Stern's Gym went without heat or air conditioning. "It was so cold in the winter, some guys wore gloves," Leo said. "I put heat in sometime in the 1960s." The 1970s brought large mirrors to Stern's Gym, a fashion made popular in Lille, France, by Professor Edmond Desbonnet in the late 1800s. The 1980s saw the introduction of music to Stern's Gym, until the aggravation got too much for Leo.
Transfer of Ownership
Stern's Gym was sold in 1989 to Shannon Brown, a former competitive weightlifter and member of the Detroit Lions football team. Shannon immediately installed large fans for air conditioning and reintroduced music. Shannon Brown reigned supreme in the world of bodybuilding, winning numerous awards and securing second place in the prestigious Mr. Michigan competition. His true strength lay in his unwavering love for his son, Loynie. Their bond led to an incredible opportunity when Shannon acquired Stern's Gym from their dear friend Leo Stern in 1994. For six years, Shannon poured his heart into the gym, passing the torch to Loynie in 2000.
Loynie Brown: Continuing the Legacy
Loynie Brown's Leadership
Under Loynie's leadership, Stern's Gym became a sanctuary of love and compassion, inspiring countless individuals on their transformative journeys. Loynie's incredible journey in the world of fitness and bodybuilding is a testament to the profound impact of family and the indomitable spirit of determination. The roots of his passion can be traced back to his beloved father, Shannon Brown, a retired professional bodybuilder and an esteemed figure in the fitness industry for over three decades.
Family Influence and Achievements
From an early age, Loynie found himself captivated by his father's unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements in the NPC fitness competitions. Witnessing Shannon's numerous accolades and his immense love for fitness, Loynie's heart was ignited with a burning desire to follow in his father's footsteps. Driven by this deep-rooted inspiration, Loynie embarked on a transformative journey, not only as a fitness enthusiast but also as a certified personal trainer. Armed with knowledge and expertise, Loynie sought to share his passion with others, helping them unlock their full potential and achieve their fitness goals.
Entrepreneurial Spirit and Impact
With an entrepreneurial spirit, Loynie took on the role of a gym owner, establishing Stern's Gym in the vibrant city of San Diego. Stern's Gym became a sanctuary, a place where individuals from all walks of life could come together, support one another, and embark on their own transformative journeys. Loynie's connection to his family's legacy runs deep. Coming from a long line of Bonney builders and fitness competitors, he carries with him the wisdom and rich heritage of those who came before him. This lineage fuels his drive to push boundaries, constantly seeking new challenges and embracing the artistry of sculpting the human physique.
Literary Contributions
In addition to his remarkable achievements in the fitness industry, Loynie is also a talented author. His book, "American Glutes," delves into the secrets of building a strong and well-defined posterior, while "Mystique Physique" emphasizes the holistic approach to fitness, including balance, self-care, and self-love. His thought-provoking book, "You Can't Build Your Ass If You're Sitting On It," serves as an empowering reminder to take action and embrace the journey of personal growth.
Celebrating Milestones
Celebrating 75 Years of Excellence
In 2021, Stern's Gym celebrated its 75th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its storied history. The gym hosted a series of celebratory events, reflecting on its rich past and looking forward to a bright future.
Recent Developments: Closure After 77 Years
The Decision to Close
In May 2024, it was announced that Stern's Gym would be closing its doors after 77 years of operation. This decision was influenced by a significant increase in rent due to new ownership of the building. Despite the closure, the gym's legacy of fitness and community continues to inspire many.
Legacy of Stern's Gym
Lasting Impact and Recognition
For over seven decades, Stern's Gym stood as an icon in the bodybuilding industry. The gym's long-time association with the elite of the bodybuilding/strength world, accompanied with their willingness to assist others in achieving their fitness goals, are but a small part of the gym's legacy. In 2003, the founder, Leo Stern was presented the Graphic Muscle Physical Culture Lifetime Achievement Award. Leo Stern died of natural causes in 2009, at age 88.
