Defying Doubters: How a Determined 24-Year-Old Built His Dream Gym in Springfield

As a 24-year-old, Brenden Coker encountered plenty of skeptics en route to launching his first business. 

The roadblocks, however, only strengthened Coker’s entrepreneurial resolve and provided him with fuel to start Gymnetix, a gym based in Springfield, Missouri. 

“I’ve had a lot of doubters in regard to being a gym owner at 24,” Coker said. “But I personally believe they were my biggest motivation.”

Several of those doubters were banks that denied Coker small business loans. His limited reputation with banks deemed him too risky, forcing him to seek financing elsewhere. 

Coker eventually found AltCap, which helped fund his dream of being his own boss and building a business that serves his community.

“The funding was the only reason I was able to open Gymnetix,” Coker said. “I went through multiple avenues trying to get approved for a loan. … Luckily, AltCap gave me the chance to prove that I am not just a 24-year-old with a dream. I am a 24-year-old with a clear action plan to be successful.”

Coker used AltCap’s financing to build out an ample gym near the center of Springfield. He purchased gym equipment, weights, exercise machines, floor mats, mirrors, and dim lighting.

Gymnetix’s mission is to offer a safe, inviting environment for fitness and community. The facility, which opened in June, offers patrons 24/7 access, personal training, and a wide variety of workout equipment and machines.  It also features a lounge and space to create content for social media. 

Located nearby several college campuses — including Missouri State University — Gymnetix hopes to attract Springfield’s large student population. Coker said he plans to maintain a personal touch with the gym as it grows. 

“My promise to my members is to showcase them as valued members rather than another number in the system,” he said. “The second I don’t know everyone’s name, I failed as an owner.”

Coker’s advice for other entrepreneurs? Cultivating perseverance is key. 

“Never let someone else’s opinion dictate your story,” Coker said. “There are going to be people that will shut down your dream, but stay true to what you believe in.”