Inside Genesis Sports Performance: Indiana’s Elite Training Hub
If you’re an athlete in Indiana, chances are you’ve heard of Genesis Sports Performance. But how did this powerhouse gym grow from a 1,500-square-foot law office into a nationally recognized training hub? It all started with a 24-year-old’s leap of faith.
The Genesis Backstory: From Med Sales to the Grit Factory
Graham Wilkerson, founder of Genesis Sports Performance, walked away from a stable career in medical device sales to chase his passion for strength and conditioning. In 2014, he signed a three-year lease on a rundown space in Indianapolis, armed with nothing but a few weights, a couple friends as clients, and a relentless work ethic.
Genesis’ first home? A former law office on Tacoma Avenue. It was carpeted, dimly lit, and rough around the edges. But it was here that Graham started building the DNA of Genesis: grit, hustle, and community.
Building a Community of Athletes
What started as a place for high school football players has grown into a training ground for:
NFL athletes like Zach Martin and Ted Karras
Multi-sport high school athletes chasing college scholarships
Young kids learning speed and agility fundamentals
Genesis built its name on measurable results. Whether it’s improving a 40-yard dash time or adding inches to a vertical jump, Graham’s training system guarantees real performance gains.
From 6 Clients to Multi-State Impact
Genesis didn’t grow overnight. Graham spent years coaching nearly every session himself, grinding through 60-hour weeks, and learning the hard way about seasonality in the sports training business. But as the gym’s reputation grew, so did its impact:
Now operating two locations in Central Indiana (65th St. & Northwest Indy)
Consulting with and licensing systems to gyms across the U.S. and Canada
Preparing to launch a full franchise model for sports performance gyms
The team has grown too. Coaches who once swept floors for minimum wage are now full-time trainers, general managers, and even business partners.
Speed is the Game-Changer
Today, Genesis has made speed training its signature. They offer a "mile-per-hour guarantee," helping athletes improve their sprint speed through force plate testing, sprint lasers, and individualized training plans.
Athletes of all ages train at Genesis, from seven-year-olds learning the basics of movement to pros fine-tuning their offseason programs.
The Entrepreneurship Journey: Trials and Growth
Like any small business, Genesis faced growing pains. From experimenting with general fitness to launching (and closing) an out-of-town gym in Madison, Graham embraced the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
The COVID-19 shutdown forced Genesis to systemize its business, support staff through uncertain times, and double down on community engagement.
What’s Next for Genesis Sports Performance?
Graham envisions Genesis as a five-location powerhouse across Central Indiana. Beyond that, his licensing and upcoming franchise model aim to help gym owners nationwide turn their passion for coaching into sustainable careers.
Check Out the Podcast Episode
Want to hear Graham's full story in his own words? Listen to our Get IN Podcast episode with Graham Wilkerson where we dive deep into his journey, the growth of Genesis, and what’s next for the business.
Quick Q&A: Genesis Sports Performance
What makes Genesis Sports Performance unique?
Their science-backed speed training program, tight-knit community, and a proven track record of helping athletes earn scholarships and pro contracts.
Can beginners train at Genesis?
Absolutely. They offer youth training programs for kids as young as 7, with a focus on proper form and athletic fundamentals.
Check Out the Get IN Newsletter
Want more Indiana business success stories and sports spotlights? Subscribe to the Get IN newsletter for fresh episodes and local insights each month.