The site of America's most famous muscle beach is the birth place of one of the world's best-known muscle makers. Gold's Gym, which first opened in Venice Beach, California in 1965, has more than 650 gyms worldwide (including some 300 gyms outside of the US), with franchises accounting for most of its locations. The chain boasts more than 3 million members. In addition to opening franchises, the firm buys smaller regional health clubs and converts them to Gold's Gyms. The company also licenses the Gold's Gym name for products such as fitness equipment and accessories, luggage, t-shirts, and men's and women's sportswear.