4 years, 5 months ago

Small gyms devastated by coronavirus fear, restrictions

NEW YORK — There’s little evidence of Americans’ passion for fitness at the tens of thousands of small and independent gyms around the country. Hanover’s big worry: A surge in cases that might prompt officials to force gyms to go back to holding only outdoor classes and one-on-one training sessions indoors. In a thriving fitness center or small gym, people run on treadmills or pedal stationary bikes nearly side by side, exercise classes are crowded and trainers work with clients just inches or a few feet apart. Vincent Miceli, owner of Body Blueprint Gym, sees another problem: People have found they can stay in shape without a gym by running, buying their own equipment or taking online workout classes. MX3 Fitness’s two small San Francisco studios can operate at only 10% of capacity after being allowed to reopen for indoor workouts Sept. 14.

Associated Press

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