He was a fitness pioneer with the invention of the Universal Gym Machine where you can do several exercises on one piece of equipment. He was crowned the first Mr. California in the state bodybuilding contest. He was a regular member of the Muscle Beach which inspired the fitness movement in this country. He moved to Fresno in 1953 and opened a chain of fitness centers in the area. He patented his invention in 1961 which is still in use today. He was a close friend to Jack LaLanne and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. (bio by: Genet)