Gyms stare at a bleak future

Already shut for three months, presumed third wave of pandemic could be a death knell of many facilities

Fitness industry is in doldrums due to the COVID-19 second wave in Vizag city. A number of fitness trainers and gym owners are not only affected by COVID-19 but also financially impacted due to the lockdown and closure of gyms. Owners of various gyms are now very much worried about their future in the wake of the presumed third wave of the pandemic. Almost 80% of the gyms are working in rented buildings paying a minimum ₹30,000 rent every month, according to those in the business. Even before they could recover from the impact of the first wave, when gyms were closed for a few months, the ongoing second wave and the consequent lockdown forced closure of their establishments for the last three months and still there is uncertainty on their opening. Many gym owners and trainers have taken loans to pay rents and take care of their families.