It was announced this week that 24 Hour Fitness has filed for bankruptcy, and is closing over 130 gyms nationwide, amid the Coronavirus pandemic. As the CEO stated, “if it weren’t for COVID-19 and its devastating effects, we would not be filing for Chapter 11”. And, industry “experts expect a dramatic shift in the U.S. fitness industry even after coronavirus restrictions are lifted, as many Americans have become accustomed to at-home, online workout options since gyms remained shuttered for months under stay-at-home orders.” Which means, we’re now seeing an evolution in home fitness.
What This Means For You
With COVID-19, we’ve been forced for the last few months to exercise indoors. And, even though gyms have been reopened here in Phoenix, many current gym users are reluctant to go back to their local gym, reflecting changing consumer sentiment surrounding health club safety and cleanliness.
Instead, many are now choosing to work out in the comfort and safety of their own home. Since March, Precor Home Fitness says sales have skyrocketed 300%. VP of Sales Dusty Schlotfeldt says they joke that “dumbbells are the new toilet paper,” because they are flying off the shelves and they can’t keep them in stock.
And, with much workout content available through YouTube, along with apps for your tablet or smart phone that offer on-demand workout classes, you can get a full workout that allows you to achieve your overall fitness goals, without having to set foot in a local gym.
Additionally, many are starting to realize that the money they’ve been spending each month on a gym membership, can be used to purchase quality cardio and strength training equipment, allowing them to put together a home fitness area on a budget. With the summer heat here in Arizona, cardio workouts on a treadmill, exercise bike, elliptical or rowing machine in your home allows you to stay out of the heat, but you’ll also avoid the risk of infection from your local gym.
Finally, with the social distancing rules now in place, many local gyms are having to limit the number of people in their facilities, forcing you to try to fit your workouts into their schedule, rather than allowing you to work out when you choose to. Many are choosing to put together a home gym setup in order to exercise when their schedule permits.
At Fitness 4 Home Superstore, we carry a full selection of premium cardio and strength training equipment, as well as fitness accessories for putting together the perfect home fitness center. Stop in today to one of our three Phoenix area locations, and talk with one of our fitness consultants!
