Businesses of all types are trying to figure out how best to cope with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and one way nimble gyms and fitness facilities are doing that is by providing streaming classes to members.
Fox Business reports that gyms and fitness studios that have been forced to close due to the outbreak — ranging from the big box brands to boutiques — have begun livestreaming classes.
According to USA Today, Planet Fitness, one of the largest gym chains in the country, has begun streaming free classes via its Facebook page. Even non-members can access the class content to get in an equipment-free workout at home while under lockdown.
“Our daily routines have changed in unexpected ways, and we know that people may not be able to get to the gym,” Jeremy Tucker, Planet Fitness chief marketing officer, told USA Today in a statement. “That’s why we’re offering a free, daily virtual class for everyone on Planet Fitness’ Facebook page from Monday through Friday.”
The classes, led by the company’s certified trainers, will stream at 7 p.m. eastern each day for the next two weeks, and be available via YouTube or Facebook on-demand after they’re posted.
Meanwhile, boutiques are following the same playbook, and attracting new audiences with their offerings.
Tuck Barre & Yoga in Philadelphia has leveraged its Facebook page to provide a livestreamed class on Sunday while its four brick-and-mortar locations are shut down.
“We’ve had close to 1,800 new Facebook followers trying our classes via this streaming service,” Hagana Kim, owner of Tuck Barre & Yoga told Fox Business. “We have people from all over the country participating.”
The lockdown taking place throughout the country represents an opportunity for subscription-based fitness streamers, too. Fox Business reports that start-up Obé Fitness, which streams live workouts to subscribers, saw a surge in new member sign ups, and has begun offering programs targeted at children while schools throughout the country are closed.
