Hailed a “true giant of British bodybuilding”, Jim’s Gym in Chapel Street is closing its doors after 67 years.
Since 1958, Jim Charles has welcomed big names in bodybuilding, including Bill Pearl, John Brown, Edward Kawak and more, and been an inspiration for musclemen and women in the Midlands and beyond.
Both Mr Charles, who lives in Quarry Bank, and his iconic gym are known locally and across the world, with his dedication to the sport going back to its early days.
He’s been involved with NABBA (National Amateur Body-Builders’ Association) for decades and recalls the time back in the 1960s when he first met Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Although he has never made it in person, Arnie has given Jim’s Gym his seal of approval and sent Mr Charles a congratulatory message in 2008, after a fire at the gym.
The Terminator star also wished Mr Charles well for his 50th anniversary in the industry.
Now, after his final show at Brierley Hall Civic in September, Mr Charles will put down the iron once and for all with the closure of his gym.
More than 100 lots of specialist equipment from the gym are now in an exclusive online auction, ready for their next workout.
These are large-scale, heavy-duty machines built for serious athletes, including bench presses, squat racks, chest press machines, low row stations, free weights and more, donning the iconic “Jim’s Gym” name.
Amy Rutherford, partnerships lead at NCM, which is running the auction, said: “This is a one-time opportunity to own equipment from one of the most respected bodybuilding gyms in the world.
“Whether you run a commercial gym, train professionally or simply want a standout piece of fitness history, you need to register for this auction.
“We’re pleased to be working with Jim and his team to keep this equipment in use, with our circular reuse approach, helping it continue to train and maintain the next generation of champions.”
The auction ends on December 9 at 1pm.
Mr Charles and his wife, Val, both announced their retirement from NABBA earlier this year, with the organisation saying: “A huge thank you to Jim and Val Charles for their incredible dedication and hard work in steering NABBA over the years.
“Your commitment has laid the foundation for everything we do today, and we are truly grateful.”
NABBA continued: “As we move forward with our modern team, we aim to honour your legacy and continue to push NABBA to new heights.
“We hope you’ll see that we’re doing it justice!”
