Stark Fitness, a Nigerian wellness and sports equipment company founded during the COVID-19 lockdown with headquarters in Ojuelegba, is expanding its operations across the country as more Nigerians seek fitness solutions that combine entertainment, learning and long-term support.
The company was founded in 2020 by Alabi Johnson Omeiza, also known as Jodre, a former Mister Nigeria winner in 2020. During the lockdown, Jodre launched a free virtual fitness group to help people stay active while confined to their homes. What started as an online initiative has now evolved into Stark Fitness.
Our Experience Center allows customers to try out fitness and recreational equipment before deciding to purchase. The company says this approach helps users understand what works for their body and lifestyle, rather than making decisions based on trends or looks.
The name “Stark”, derived from the German word for strength, reflects the company's belief that fitness should be treated as a long-term lifestyle choice rather than a short-term goal. Stark Fitness does not operate as a traditional gym or equipment store. Instead, its centers function as open entertainment venues where visitors can use equipment such as treadmills, snooker tables and table football without the pressure of purchasing.
According to the company, this model is designed to reduce fear and uncertainty around fitness, especially for first-time users. By allowing people to test out the equipment independently, Stark Fitness aims to make exercise more accessible and less intimidating.
Education is another key part of its strategy. The company says there is widespread confusion about health and exercise in Nigeria. Through online and physical free consultations at its centers and educational videos on its YouTube channel and other social media handles, Stark Fitness seeks to present fitness as a health necessity rather than a status symbol.
Cost also remains a concern in a market where fitness is often associated with expensive gym memberships and equipment. Stark Fitness says it works with a variety of budgets and promotes routines that don't rely on premium products.
After sales service is a key pillar of business. The company provides warranties, replacement parts and guidance on the use and care of the equipment, including advice on voltage safety for treadmills. It says this helps reduce downtime and increases trust with customers.
Stark Fitness currently operates in Lagos and Ile-Ife, Osun State and is planning to open a branch in Abuja. It reports increasing interest from corporate organizations and property developers integrating gyms and sports facilities into offices and residential properties across the South West as well.
As Nigeria's life expectancy increases, from about 52 years in 2020 to about 55 years today, Stark Fitness says it is focused on increasing access to fitness and recreational infrastructure, despite ongoing economic pressures affecting equipment costs.
