This week, we had the honor of welcoming Shaun Clarida - 212 Mr. Olympia champion and one of the world’s most respected physique athletes. Over the course of three packed days, we visited several gyms, hosted Q&A sessions, and connected with lots of gym owners and fitness enthusiasts. The conversations were rich and meaningful, covering training, daily routines, personal goals, and everything that comes with life in the fitness world
For us at Gymleco, it wasn’t just about showcasing our equipment. It was about creating real moments where experiences and knowledge could be shared. That’s the kind of community we aim to support in this industry.
Day 1 – Breakfast, training and a 6-year anniversary
We kicked off the tour with a hotel breakfast before heading to Gymleco HQ. Shaun toured our showroom, crushed a heavy session with Ashkan Aghili, and got a good look behind the scenes at how we work.
Shaun Clarida at Gymleco HQ.
In the afternoon, we continued on to SS Lifestyle where Ashkan hosted a Q&A with Shaun. The vibe was relaxed and open, with great questions from the crowd. Photos were taken, shirts were signed, and conversations flowed. We ended the visit by celebrating SS Lifestyle’s 6-year anniversary - and yes, of course there was a cake.
Shaun Clarida with Ashkan and SS Lifestyle.
Day 2 – Equipment, questions and… surstromming?
The day started with a gym owner meet-up at Gymleco HQ. During the Q&A, Shaun shared his perspective on everything from competing on stage to how he structures his training and everyday life as a pro athlete.
Afterwards, we took a walk through the showroom where Shaun pointed out some of his favorite gym machines and chatted with visitors about training technique, programming, and how to stay at the top of your game - year after year.
Shaun Clarida showing off both muscles and gym machines.
Then it was time for something completely different: surströmming. We figured you can’t visit Sweden without trying this "delicacy" (even though none of us have tried it before).
And for a champion like Shaun, this was no problem at all. Without flinching, he inhaled the fermented herring odor, placed a fillet on the crispbread and took a bite. It might not make it into his future meal prep (which, by the way, came along in a suitcase full of meal prepped boxes), but he handled it just like we expected: like a champ.
Shaun Clarida and the very hyped surstromming.
The day wrapped up at Flex Fitness, where Linnea Enstedt hosted the evening’s Q&A. Another great opportunity for people to connect with “The Giant Killer” and talk training, goals, and mindset.
Shaun Clarida meeting fans at Flex Fitness.
Day 3 – Final stop on the tour
The last day started at Stark Gym, where Shaun walked around, spoke with members, and took time for everyone who wanted to chat or take a photo.
We wrapped up the tour at Delta Gym with a final Q&A. The atmosphere was relaxed, photos with fans was taken, items signed, and several great conversations rounded of the experience. A great ending to three unforgettable days.
Shaun Claridas final stop of the tour.
Final thoughts
Having Shaun Clarida with us for three days was both inspiring and insightful. Beyond showcasing our gym equipment and different gym environments, it gave us the opportunity to meet hundreds of people who share our passion for training. In the end, the tour wasn’t just about showing off big muscles - it was about motivation, meaningful connections, and the energy that grows when people come together around something they truly care about. The biggest takeoff? Learning that not even Sweden’s smelliest fish could put The Giant Killer off his game.
A big thank you to Shaun, the gyms we visited, and most of all to everyone who showed up, asked questions, and shared their stories with us.
