Article: Why I Started Before I Go
Why I Started Before I Go
Like all good brand stories, Before I Go started as one of a hundred thoughts racing through my mind while on a treadmill. No, not the treadmill of life. I was literally on a treadmill getting in some steps after a lifting session.
The Cardio Session That Started Before I Go
Weirdly, for a powerlifter, I find some solace in the rhythm of steady state cardio. It gives me space and time to think, which is what led me to this point. Looking out across the gym – because I'm nosey – there were plenty of people wearing t-shirts, as you'd expect. However, very few, if any, of the t-shirts spoke to me.
Plenty looked great, but none of them actually said anything. They don't necessarily need to. Some people want a comfortable, stylish fit. I do too, but I also want something more. For me, training is as much a mental game as a physical one, which is why I created Before I Go.
Why Every Before I Go Gym T-Shirt Says Something
Every Before I Go gym t-shirt says something. That "something" is a thought-provoking message conveyed in the form of a poem, written by me. Some of the poems are simple and direct. Some are a bit more abstract and require a bit of reflection.
Whichever way they say something, the point is they do. Before I Go gym t-shirts mean something. Each one captures a specific emotion or theme, but all of them are rooted in the idea that today was never promised, and tomorrow is just a dream.
That's why I came up with the name: Before I Go. We all assume our existence today was guaranteed, as it will be tomorrow. Sadly, it wasn't, and it isn't. Plenty of people will say that's a morbid way of looking at life.
It might be, but that doesn't make it untrue. And, if I'm right, dedicated, talented and motivated people like you don't see it that way. My gym apparel is aimed at people who fight for wins every day. I've used the word "fight" deliberately, because life isn't easy.
What 'Before I Go' Means: Meaningful Gym Wear for Fighters
Life isn't a treadmill that rolls forward in a straight line. It's a series of stops, starts, lefts, rights, ups and downs. If you accept the uncertainty of life as a challenge, you can move forward.
I truly believe we're all capable of doing something special before we go. You might not know what it is. I don't even know what it is, but I know there's something out there for all of us.
The world doesn't need to know. It doesn't matter if you're the only person who knows. What matters is that you find a reason to fight and you keep fighting for it. That's the spirit of Before I Go gym apparel.
Thoughts > Words > Meaningful Gym T-Shirts
That's why we don't sell t-shirts. That's why the brand is more than a logo. Before I Go makes people stop and think. Before I Go is my way of leaving a mark on the world.
I turn thoughts into words. Sometimes they're happy thoughts. Sometimes they're sad thoughts. Whatever the thought, it's always honest. I'm not in this to make a quick buck, even if there's a bureau de change 10 minutes from my house in England.
The goal is to turn thoughts into inspiring designs.
If you want a full breakdown of what makes a great gym t-shirt, from fabric weight to fit, read our guide to the best gym t-shirts for men in the UK.
Style, Substance, and Meaningful Gym Wear
I'm not a hippie (no offence). This isn't some sort of spiritual movement. All I want to do is make you think every time you put on a Before I Go t-shirt. I want you to connect with the words and use them to fuel your workout.
You might like 10 t-shirts. You might only like one. That's OK, we're all different. All I'm saying is that you should buy products that spark something inside you. If the poem or design doesn't say something to you, don't buy it.
The Devil in Me
I wrote the poems, but the words belong to you, so make sure the t-shirts fit. I can't promise you'll look good, run faster, lift more or smash PBs in my products. What I promise is that you'll feel what you're wearing. That you'll be inspired and inspire others.
Good things happen when you feel like that. I won't take up any more of your time. Let me know what you think in the comments, on social media or via email. I'd love to know which t-shirts inspire you and why.
Thank you.
Before I Go Apparel FAQ
What is Before I Go apparel?
Before I Go is a meaningful gym wear brand founded by Daniel Smyth, a UK-based powerlifter and writer. Every t-shirt features an original poem written by Daniel and an image from an established artist. It's gym wear for people who want their clothing to say something, not just look good on the rack.
What does 'Before I Go' mean?
The name comes from a simple truth: today was never promised, and tomorrow is just a dream. 'Before I Go' is a reminder to fight for wins every day, do something meaningful with the time we have, and leave a mark on the world before we go. Every Before I Go garment is built around that idea.
Who is Before I Go apparel for?
Before I Go is for people who fight for wins every day: lifters, runners, athletes, and anyone else who treats training as much a mental game as a physical one. If you want gym wear that means something rather than just fitting well, this brand is for you.
What makes Before I Go gym t-shirts different?
Every Before I Go gym t-shirt contains an original poem written by me and an image from an established artist. Nothing is generic. Nothing is off-the-shelf. Each design captures a specific emotion or theme, all rooted in the idea that today was never promised. Read The Story Behind The Weary Warrior for a deeper look at one of the brand's best-sellers.
