Gym Nation

We spoke to Andy Parsons, the owner and CEO of Gym Nation in London Bridge!

Tell us about yourself and your business.

I am Andy Parsons, the owner and CEO of Gym Nation on Druid Street, London Bridge. My journey into the fitness industry started 8 years ago when I realised the transformative power it had on my own life, both physically and mentally.

Throughout the pandemic and its various lockdowns, I hosted free online fitness classes for a small community. This was a really tough time for people mentally (including myself!) and was having negative impacts on people physically. Being able to help people through this brought me so much joy and triggered the start of my fitness community (AP Fitness), which really grew after the lockdowns, and it is from this that Gym Nation was born. Gym Nation opened its doors in April 2023. Our vision was to create a space where everyone feels welcome and empowered to pursue their fitness goals. This is whether it’s your first day in a gym or you are prepping for a competition. We know gyms can be daunting to enter, so we pride ourselves on always having a friendly, welcoming face at our reception desk as soon as you walk in. Fitness is for everyone and we believe this ethos extends through to our members who are just as welcoming and approachable as our staff.

Since April, we’ve grown into a thriving community hub, offering a wide range of fitness classes, state-of-the-art equipment, and personalised training options.

What makes a railway arch a good space for your gym?

The arches under the railway in Bermondsey offer a unique and spacious environment perfect for a gym with high ceilings, ample room for equipment, and a cool industrial vibe that motivates intense workouts.

What attracted you to Southwark?

We were attracted to Southwark for its vibrant community and central location, which offers easy access to key areas of London. The area’s rich heritage, diverse population and dynamic atmosphere makes it an ideal place to connect with people and grow a thriving, inclusive business.

What’s some advice you would give to a new business owner looking to open their doors?

1. Get to know your market, target audience and other businesses that offer similar services.
2. Location is key to success. Make sure your location aligns with your business needs.
3. Create a solid financial plan, particularly focusing on cash flows.
4. Get help from the right people. There are lots of people who have been in a similar position to you and are happy to share their experiences.