Morgan’s was originally known as Imara Health & Fitness (meaning strength in Swahili) and was founded by John Williams in 2006 when he left the armed forces. Armed with not much more than enthusiasm, vision and lots of determination John set about raising the finances needed to open his first fitness centre. John was given lots of support from the army at the time and he was delighted and proud when his Major opened the centre at Crownhill. The opening of the centre coincided with the birth of John’s son Jack and we have seen them grow up together – both the centre and Jack will celebrate their 5th birthday this year!
The business was and continues to be about offering affordable health and fitness, targeting people who would not normally feel comfortable or confident about joining a gym and providing a safe, friendly and welcoming environment for all.
Originally just a gym the Morgan’s Plymouth (Crownhill) centre has developed year on year and now provides:
- state of the art gym
- aerobic and dance classes (2 studios)
- strength and toning area
- cardio workouts
- structured fitness programmes
- weight management centre
- personal training
- health screening
- rehabilitation
- sports therapy and massage
- hair, beauty and nail salon
- therapy rooms
- special events
- cafe and relaxation area
- room hire
- new changing rooms
In 2007 the second centre in the city centre opened as a ladies only facility that eventually became a unisex centre. In the heart of the university this centre has a big student membership and offers the most affordable gym membership in the area.
In 2008 the first salon at Christian Mill, Plymouth (Crownhill), was opened and named Morgan’s. It was dedicated to Kevin Morgan (John’s uncle) who had recently died following a long, courageous and spirited battle with a brain tumour. Kevin had an amazing attitude and approach to life with a wicked sense of humour and displayed such dignity and courage in the face of suffering. He loved his life and lived every day to the full and was a shining example and we try to bring those same values to the centre ethos – we want to make a difference!
John was so pleased with the Morgan’s brand that he changed the name of the fitness centres from Imara to Morgan’s in 2009.
Most businesses have a story to tell about how they got their name or what the name means but with Morgan’s it really couldn’t be more personal or hold any more significance. For John Williams and Denise Boaden (Managing Director of Morgan’s. John’s mum and Kevin’s sister) their family name is quite literally above the door.
