As the number of COVID-19 cases balloons, many gyms have faced financial hardship, and some have even had to close. Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez recently ordered them closed, then changed his mind.
Due to the pandemic, it remains uncertain whether many commercial gyms will survive. But there is an alternative trend occurring due to COVID-19.
Many people prefer working out from the safety and comfort of their homes. In fact, according to Fitt Insider, interest in home workout equipment has increased by five times while dumbells have sold out in many places, and stock in stationary bike maker Peloton Interactive has more than doubled in value recently.
Joel Sanchez, an FIU student, has not left his home since March. Instead of letting this alter his fitness lifestyle, he has adapted and invested in a basic home gym set-up and equipment. Looking at this as a long-term investment, he has put $3,000 towards this project. He plans to spend another grand or so before the end of this year.
Andre Morales, a personal trainer, lost his clientele and business due to COVID-19. This motivated him to invest over $4,000 in an advanced home gym set-up. “I wanted to have a safe and spacious environment… [for] clients to work out in,” said Morales.
Dominic Diaz, assistant manager/personal trainer for 24 Hour Fitness, has seen the impact COVID-19 first hand. “A lot of people are scared,” said Diaz. He says some people do not feel comfortable returning to gyms. And they can get a decent workout with minimal equipment at home.
Though many gyms are now open, home gyms seem to be a better long term lifestyle option to some. Although there are some amenities that commercial gyms readily offer, one can never put a price on health and safety.
