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How the fitness industry is reinventing itself

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The doors to F45 Gateshead’s expansive studio might be closed for classes, but that hasn’t stopped its seven coaches and 70 members from working up a sweat.

After COVID-19 lockdowns meant fitness enthusiasts could no longer train together at the Metro Court site, the energetic team was forced to get creative. 

Using pre-recorded and zoom live classes, the group have been producing a number of 45-minute workouts, both indoor and outdoor, using an array of different equipment to mimic their pre-pandemic timetable.

F45 Gateshead franchise owner Nick Farer said he and his team had been adapting their program since lockdown was announced on 5 August.

“We’ve had to be creative and we’ve tried to keep it interesting for our members in the process.

“When we looked around and saw an empty studio filled with equipment but no members, we started loaning our equipment to members so they could train from wherever they were, without having to pay too much to buy their own, or wait for it to be delivered.”

The gym’s sessions start everyday at 5am and include four zoom classes each week.

“We’ve been welcomed into lounge rooms every day for weeks,” Mr Farer said.

“It’s just like being at the studio, people bringing their kids and dogs along, only now they feature in the zoom, climbing all over them, being lifted in a weights session – it’s been one of my highlights to be honest.”

Mr Farer says although he can’t wait to have everyone back in the gym, enjoying the banter and his dad jokes, he’s grateful his team and members have been “bringing the energy” during such a tough time.

“Our members and coaches are making the best of a less-than-ideal situation,” he said.

“While a lot of things have changed during this time, their support and energy has remained the same and for that we’re extremely grateful.”

The fitness industry has been one of the hardest hit from COVID-19.

In a Fitness Australia COVID-19 Fitness Industry Impact Report published in April 2020, 24% of gyms reported a 61% decline in memberships due to cancellations or suspensions, with revenue down 100% for 50% of gym owners.

Fitness is a $3 billion a year industry that employs more than 35,000 people across more than 6,426 businesses in Australia. 

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