Gym Outfitters: Doing Right by Customers and the Community

At Boise’s Gym Outfitters, fitness runs in the family. So does a deeply rooted belief in doing right by customers and employees.

Founded by Dan Spindler in 1990, the business is now led by his daughter Michelle Spindler, who runs the day-to-day. Michelle traces everything Gym Outfitters does back to its beginnings as a service and repair shop.

“My dad built this place from the ground up on the needs of the community,” said Michelle. “We’re still operating from the same principle we started decades ago—always do right by people. If someone has an issue, we take care of them.”

For example, early on when Dan was focusing on maintenance and repair, he’d order frequently-needed parts in bulk, knowing that having them on hand would enable him to get customers’ equipment back up and running quickly—and keeping clients like gyms from inconveniencing their own customers.

His service ethic led to customers asking him to also become their authorized fitness equipment dealer in the Treasure Valley region.

That kind of thoughtfulness and care is a core part of workplace culture at Gym Outfitters, too. And according to Michelle, empowering their team is central to delivering a great client experience.

“Everyone has a voice, everyone has a say,” said Michelle, who joined full-time 11 years ago. “My dad always told me I was more than just a number, that I’m not replaceable—and that’s motivating. I want everyone here to feel supported in that way.”

Scott Bowen, branch manager at our Boise Overland branch, says Gym Outfitters is a model client and member of the community. 

“Gym Outfitters has a big impact,” said Scott. “They’re very generous about donating equipment and doing sponsorships for schools, rec centers and even donating to people who’ve been injured and need rehab. We’re proud to know them and serve them.”

For her part, Michelle says Banner has come through when they’ve faced the inevitable challenges of running a business.

“When we’ve needed them, they were there, especially during the pandemic,” said Michelle.

Gym Outfitters remains a thriving fixture in Boise, with business split between residential and commercial clientele, including multifamily housing, hospitals and rehabilitation centers.

What’s next? “We just show up every day and do our best with our team and with customers,” Michelle said. “We know if we focus on that, the goodwill feeds into the community.”