Ahmedabad: Following the guidelines of the government of Gujarat, gyms, yoga studios and fitness centres are set to resume business from August 5, under a new normal. Owners of gyms, yoga and fitness centres are ready to follow the new standard operating procedure, but the overall business prospects look bleak for various reasons including high overhead costs and the expected reduction in number of clients.
Akshay Das, who runs two gyms in Ahmedabad, said, “Before the lockdown, we had some 1,500 clients and occupancy of 25%. However, we are unsure how many clients will rejoin. While some have shown willingness to rejoin with precautions; that will not be enough to sustain costs. New inquiries will take a hit and on the other hand, we will have costs piling up in terms of staff salaries and operation and maintenance of premises.”
People are also quite apprehensive about joining gyms again. “Joining a gym once again will come with a risk because the same equipment is being used by different people and therefore, the chance of contracting infection, if any, will be greater. I would rather continue the home workout regime I have cultivated during the lockdown,” said Bhargav K, a professional.
While gym owners are sceptical about footfall, those who run personalized fitness training centres or specialized fitness centres are hopeful of getting their clientele back in a month. Industry players claim that increased awareness about maintaining good health and better immunity is a positive sign. “In the past fortnight, inquiries from clients have been good and I am confident that 75% of the clients will return because there is greater awareness and a stronger will among people to stay fit and maintain better immunity. We have procured spray guns to disinfect the room and equipment and ensure natural air circulation while encouraging private one-on-one sessions at our Pilates studio,” said Harshika Patel, an Ahmedabad-based fitness entrepreneur.