Aspects of this topic are discussed in the following places at Britannica.
Another offshoot of the popularity of bodybuilding and dietary aids was the emergence of health clubs. The first postwar chain was started by Vic Tanny in Santa Monica, California. Eventually there were 84 Tanny gyms nationwide, complemented by sufficient carpet, chrome, and leather to attract a higher-class clientele. Though grossing $15 million a year, the organization was overextended and...
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