How Gyms Have Adapted during COVID19

The COVID-19 pandemic brought a number of sectors to a standstill, but the fitness industry was particularly badly hit. When the outbreak was at its peak, the risk of transmission meant that gyms, leisure centres and fitness industries were forced to close their doors indefinitely.

However, this didn’t stop innovative trainers from adapting and overcoming the challenges. In fact, gym owners and PTs found a number of ways to engage with clients throughout the pandemic, including:

Online Workouts

The popularity of virtual workouts has soared during the outbreak, with millions of people logging on to Zoom, FaceTime and Skype to take part in lessons and classes.

Technology has revolutionised the way we live and work, and now it’s changing the way we stay fit too.

From group workouts online to personalised training sessions, many people have used their time on lockdown to hone their fitness routines and boost their health. While gyms are beginning to offer traditional services, the widespread popularity of virtual fitness classes means that demand for online workouts looks set to stay.

Nutritional Plans

From keto and low carb diets to intermittent fasting and OMAD plans, online nutritional coaching and advice has been key for fitness professionals to maintain their client base during COVID-19.

In addition to delivering fitness instruction via the internet, industry professionals have adapted during the COVID-19 outbreak by focusing on nutrition and well-being. Anyone who wants to boost their fitness knows how important it is to eat right. However, this is generally easier said than done!

Nutritionists and personal trainers provide their clients with valuable information regarding what foods to eat and when to eat them.

Outdoor Classes

By holding fitness classes outdoors, personal trainers have been able to ensure that all participants can socially distance and workout safely.

While outdoor classes weren’t an option when lockdown guidelines were at their strictest, they have been integral to the industry re-opening.

It's widely believed that the virus can be transmitted more easily indoors, which is one of the reasons why gyms and leisure centres were closed. Fortunately, holding fitness events outdoors and prohibiting the sharing of equipment means that trainers can instruct clients on a face-to-face basis without contravening any regulations.

This, in conjunction with virtual workouts and online classes, means that everyone has access to comprehensive health and fitness services. Whether you’re an avid marathon runner, a budding weightlifter or you simply want to lose a few pounds, the range of fitness options available highlights just how well the industry has adapted to the unprecedented pandemic.

Will the fitness industry recover?

Many companies have experienced cash flow problems throughout the pandemic but there is no doubt that the fitness industry will recover from the disruption caused by COVID-19.

In fact, the innovation and ingenuity shown by business owners at this challenging time has led to the fitness industry becoming more inclusive and exciting than ever before.