Page 98 - South Mississippi Living - March, 2026

SPORTS & OUTDOORS
story by Lynn Lofton
photos by Katherine Sowers
G ulf Coast Elite Training Facility (GCETF) opened its
6,500-square-foot facility in December of 2024 bringing
a new kind of gym to the area.
“I’ve been working out for
41 years in gyms all over the country,” says owner Douglas Sellers. “I was the original owner/creator of Iron Works
Gym in Biloxi. I opened it in February of 2011 and sold it in May of 2025. I traveled and looked at a bunch of different gyms to come up with our concept and I think that’s what sets us apart from everyone else.”
Owner, Douglas Sellers
Employee, Kate Kuykendall
The facility has the word elite in its name, but
everyone is welcome. “We train athletes of all sorts and
ages and also create elite competitors here,” Sellers said. “Gulf Coast Elite Training Facility is a mature gym focused on getting you the results you’re seeking. You’re not a number here, you’re family.”
With only 500 memberships available, there’s never overcrowding so everyone can always get their workout completed.
It’s members only, which means there are no day or week passes available for non-members. You must be a card-carrying member to train there.
“Our staff of certified personal trainers has the knowledge to help you get the most out of your training. We offer training for sports-specific athletes and what we call ‘lifestyle clients.’ We can train anyone for anything,” Sellers added.
He was inspired to open GCETF after owning and operating Iron Works Gym for more than 15 years. “I thought there was a need for something more mature
and focused instead of just another open-door gym
where anyone can just come in and do whatever. We offer knowledge and experience to everyone who walks in the door. And, if they’re just looking for a super clean, state-of- the-art facility, well we’re that also.”
Trainer, Ryan Jordan
98 | March 2026 www.smliving.net |
13334 Seaway Rd., Gulfport 228.678.1339 www.gcetf.com
by Design
Gulf Coast Elite Training Facility Raises the Bar
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living