Gyms stare at a bleak future

Fitness trade is in doldrums because of the COVID-19 second wave in Vizag metropolis. A variety of health trainers and fitness center homeowners should not solely affected by COVID-19 but in addition financially impacted because of the lockdown and closure of gyms. Owners of varied gyms at the moment are very a lot fearful about their future within the wake of the presumed third wave of the pandemic.

Almost 80% of the gyms are working in rented buildings paying a minimal ₹30,000 lease each month, in keeping with these within the enterprise.

Even earlier than they might recuperate from the impression of the primary wave, when gyms have been closed for a few months, the continued second wave and the resultant lockdown compelled closure of their institutions for the final three months and nonetheless there’s uncertainty on their opening. Many fitness center homeowners and trainers have taken loans to pay rents and care for their households.

“Compared to the first wave, the second has completely shattered the industry,” laments B. Mahesh, who owns Maruthi Gym at Akkayyapalem. “During the first wave, some relaxations were given for payment of bank loan instalments and some owners reduced rents. But now the situation is different. There is no help from the government. Several gyms with a strong clientele have changed hands due to financial issues,” he says.

Debt burden

G. Ravi Kumar of Maxx Fitness fitness center at Murali Nagar was amongst a few homeowners who had invested for renovating and increasing the power after the pandemic first wave to make sure social distancing for his clients. Two months later, it needed to be shut because of the reimposed COVID-19 restrictions.

“We are now trapped in debts and not in a position to pay full rents and salaries to the staff,” he bemoans.

With the third wave of COVID-19 being predicted, they concern if folks would be a part of gyms once more within the close to future. Many are promoting away their tools which has been rusting on account of non-usage.

“Last year, we held meetings to discuss issues related to COVID-19 impact. But this year, even that is not possible since many of our members and their families have been infected. After the cases decline, we may come together and discuss ways to tide over the crisis,” says K. Ganesh of Vayuputra Health Club and president of Visakha Gym Owners’ Welfare Association.