West Michigan man uses fitness to strengthen his faith-based designs

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The gym is Justin Helou’s sanctuary. He goes there to build community and strengthen his faith after both were tested in 2020.

“My brother and I lost family; people lost jobs,” said Justin Helou, founder of HolStrength.

That rock bottom became Helou’s trampoline. He came up with the idea to start HolStrength. It’s a brand that combines Helou’s love of God and gains.

“I started to realize the one thing that couldn’t be stripped away from you was your identity in Christ and your faith,” said Helou.

Helou knew nothing about designing clothes but took a leap of faith.

“It was from God,” said Helou.

He landed his first orders in January 2021. That’s when he launched HolStrength with his brother, Joseph, from their mom’s basement.

“It’s helped me realize how many people connect with their faith and want to express it,” said Joseph Helou, co-owner of HolStrength.

Supporters, including Pro Football Hall of Famer Terrell Owens, sport the brand. They wear it to the doctor’s office, to track practice and to live entertainment venues.

“It’s amazing, first of all,” said Helou.

Their support inspires Helou to keep creating both online and from his warehouse.

He showed News 8 some of his soon-to-be-released designs. One of them has the word “forgiven” printed across the front.

It’s words like that Helous says everyone can live by, but it’s scripture that powers his workouts and creativity.

“Our main mission is to encourage people to go out and be a light,” said Helou.

Helou said he has plans to design clothes for youths and young people.

He also wants to start a gym where faith will be at its core.

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