Fitness Industry Roundup: Gyms Find Success in Tough Times

Betting against the health and fitness industry’s survival doesn’t seem to be the right move—consumers still want and need access to exercise facilities. The industry is full of relentless, hardworking, and caring people. Even the dreadful impact of the coronavirus hasn’t stopped these health club operators from succeeding—in some cases, expanding their business—and lifting up their community.

Health Club Sells More Memberships Than Ever Before Amid Pandemic

As reported by WLNS, from September to December 2020, Powerhouse Gym in Lansing, MI, sold more gym memberships than ever before. The amount of gym membership sales has surprised the staff, says gym manager Steve Zavori. “We’ve had a lot of people come in, and I think it’s going to be a really good January for us as well....People want to be proactive and come in and be as healthy as they can,” he said.

Read what one member has to say about joining Powerhouse Gym.

Owner Keeps Gym Open Despite Closures & Personal Battles

A tragic suicide, COVID-19 shutdowns, divorce, depression, and defaulting on payments—all in one year. This was the reality for Dameka Quimby, owner of CrossFit Pine Creek in Pittsburgh, PA. Despite every hardship, Quimby told Morning Chalk Up that her community and fitness is too important to her overall health and she won’t be throwing in the towel. She said, “There are just too many signs saying don’t give up yet, that change is on the horizon.”

Learn more about Quimby’s personal story and facility.

Fitness Club Expands Business for Community Wellness

Coronado Fitness Club in Coronado, CA, took the pandemic and restrictions as an opportunity to be creative. Chris Foote, owner of Coronado Fitness Club, credits COVID-19 for the club’s expansions and improvements, especially the new 3,000-square-foot space extending from the first floor of the facility to the parking lot. The Coronado Eagle & Tribune reports Foote’s end goal is to have something available that sparks interest for everyone in the community. He said, “We’re doubling down on our strengths and making it one place where people can come to and have so many different options.”

Check out all that Coronado Fitness Club has to offer.

Business Partners Adapt to Meet Member Needs

Although their physical gym on Long Island was forced to close due to the shutdown, Dennis Guerrero and his business partner quickly cultivated a virtual solution: Life Outside the Box, or LifeOTB. The pair’s story, featured in The New York Times, shows how vital it is for gym-goers to have a community to support them in their fitness journey. Many of the members note that the virtual adjustment was difficult at first, but they found encouragement and reassurance from Guerrero, other trainers, and members.

Read the full story and what members think of their new community.

Free Outdoor Workouts Continue With Pandemic Restrictions

Fitness at the Plaza, a popular cold-weather exercise program held at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany, NY, will return this year, reports News10. Classes will be held every Tuesday and Thursday from 5-6 p.m., starting January 5 through March 25. The Hot Yoga Spot offers a combination of Barre-inspired bootcamp and yoga, while Tanny Pro Fitness will host high-intensity, full-body workout classes.

Find out the special protocols in place this year.