Franchisee Stories
World Gym franchisees Dean Altes and Henry Hazboun have built a thriving, strength-focused fitness community in Fulton, New York, emphasizing inclusivity and personal transformation.
In Fulton, New York, World Gym franchisees Dean Altes and Henry Hazboun have created more than just a workout space — they've built a thriving fitness community. Since taking over the gym in 2018, the duo has leveraged their combined backgrounds in business and fitness to foster an inclusive, strength-focused environment that welcomes everyone from teens to seniors.
Altes, a seasoned business owner with experience running gymnastics centers, and Hazboun, an amateur bodybuilder and personal trainer, saw an opportunity to take their shared passion for fitness to the next level. Their gym, a pillar in their small-town community, embodies the core values of the World Gym brand: strength, dedication and inclusivity.
Before stepping into the world of franchising, Altes and Hazboun had different career paths. Altes managed children's activity centers, while Hazboun dedicated himself to bodybuilding and personal training. Their journey to gym ownership began when Altes' wife started training with Hazboun and experienced outstanding results. Inspired, Altes joined in and quickly saw the value Hazboun brought to the fitness space.
When the opportunity arose to take over the Fulton World Gym location, the duo knew it was the right fit. Altes brought business expertise, while Hazboun's deep ties to the fitness community and local reputation provided the perfect foundation for success.
"The gym is in my hometown, where I’m known, so it felt right to take it over together," Hazboun said.
For Altes and Hazboun, World Gym wasn’t just a franchise — it was the perfect brand to align with their vision. With its strong reputation and history dating back to the golden era of bodybuilding, World Gym provided a sense of authenticity and support that independent gyms often lack.
"World Gym corporate has been very supportive. They really want to see franchisees succeed," Altes said. "Even though our location is smaller in terms of size and membership, being in a smaller town works to our advantage."
Hazboun, a longtime admirer of World Gym, sees taking over the franchise as a dream come true. "I’ve been a bodybuilder for years, and World Gym has a rich history in the fitness world,” he said. “It was a great experience to take over the location, and the support we’ve received has been amazing.”
One of the key factors that sets World Gym Fulton apart is its commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere for all members.
"Our gym is for everyone, from 14-year-olds to 80-year-olds, and that’s not easy to achieve," Hazboun said. "But we’ve created an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, and we want to continue that."
The gym operates 24/7, giving members the flexibility to train whenever it suits their schedule. While the facility is staffed during regular hours, Altes and Hazboun monitor operations remotely, ensuring a safe and seamless experience for members at all times.
"Our members love the environment Henry has created, and we want to keep fostering that sense of community," Altes said.
Altes and Hazboun have no intention of slowing down. Their goal is to continue building on their gym’s reputation, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the Fulton fitness community.
"We have a beautiful facility. It may be smaller, but Henry and the team take great pride in keeping it in top shape," Altes said. "Our goal is to keep building on the reputation we’ve established in the community."
As they look to the future, they remain dedicated to the core principles that make their gym stand out: a commitment to strength training, a welcoming environment and a focus on helping members reach their full potential.
Founded in the 1970s amidst the iconic bodybuilding culture of Los Angeles, World Gym has been synonymous with strength, power and passion from the very beginning. Legends such as Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno trained at the original Muscle Beach location, helping to establish World Gym as the premier destination for serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
With almost 50 years of franchising experience and more than 250 locations worldwide, World Gym continues to be an international leader in fitness and conditioning. The brand offers franchise opportunities across prime markets, empowering entrepreneurs to join a legacy of excellence. As a results-driven fitness brand, World Gym differentiates itself from high-volume, low-price competitors by offering members an unmatched commitment to strength training and personal transformation.
For more information on franchising with World Gym, visit: https://1851franchise.com/world-gym.
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