Gyms call for help as they rearrange their set-ups yet again

Gyms in SA have had their capacities reduced again – and while many are still operating, they are pleading for financial support as running costs have stayed the same.

Fitness operators say financial help will be crucial to the survival of the industry, as gyms re-adapted their facilities to accommodate the latest round of restrictions.

As of midnight Sunday, gymnasiums and venues that host fitness and recreation activities returned to density limits of one person per seven square metres.

David Craggs, managing director of BioFit at Noarlunga, said he was supportive of some level of restrictions as a measure to ensure the health of members and staff.

“There’s frustration with the situation but we totally understand we are businesses that are bringing people together and that’s what they’re trying to limit,” he said.

He said the gym, which is based out of a premises that is nearly 800sqm, will continue to operate but acknowledged that some in the industry do not have the space to comply with the new restrictions.

Mr Craggs said there had already been a downturn, and called for urgent financial assistance for affected businesses.

David Craggs, managing director of BioFit in his gym – suffering from re-imposed density restrictions. Picture: Kelly Barnes

“That’s been one of our biggest concerns: as a small business, is how do we get through the coming months if every other day we’re having to change our operations or shut for a few days?” he said.

“Our running costs don’t change. We’ve got our set costs to run the facility and I guess what we’re starting to see now is an element of risk mitigation by individuals.

“So that’s led to a downturn in income … that’s understandable, but we need help.”

Other fitness operators have been forced to close their doors temporarily because of Covid exposures.