In 1979, Kenny Walburn started Walburn's Gym in the basement of the Godfather's Pizza building in Emporia, Kansas. At that time, Walburn's was recognized mostly as a place for hardcore bodybuilders. There was no such thing as a personal trainer, let alone any guidelines, and the basic culture of fitness and overall health that we have today did not exist. A lot has evolved in this industry between then and now, and Walburn's too, has evolved and expanded into a successful family-owned and managed business with the reputation of a clean, friendly, all-around fitness center with something for everyone, including personal trainers, if desired.

In 2000, Kenny's son, Brian, sought assistance from the Emporia State University Kansas Small Business Development Center (KSBDC) with expanding the business and incorporating, to facilitate the ownership of him and his wife, Frannie, along with Kenny. The KSBDC counselor worked with Brian on his business planning and projections for the expansion.

The vision of Walburn's is building a healthier community, one person at a time. They have worked very hard on their vision, which is evident from the expansion; membership has grown from 98 members in 2000 to 950 members in 2005, floor space has increased from 2,900 square feet to 10,000 square feet, and 48 pieces of equipment were added, as well as both men's and women's locker rooms and showers, tanning booths, Kid's Korner (child care), and many new fitness classes. In 2004, Walburn's opened in McPherson,Kansas, where Brian’s brother Bobby Walburn manages the facility. The business supports many schools, local charities, and various fundraisers. We encourage everyone in the community to participate in some form of physical activity. If you choose to use our gym to facilitate your exercise, then come visit us at 1007 Commercial.

Thanks,

Brian, Frannie, and Kenny Walburn