Jacksonville-area gyms pushing mayor, governor to reopen

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Local gyms and personal trainers are urging the mayor and Florida’s governor to open gyms.

Like many fitness centers, Body Control Gym has transitioned to virtual workouts as it rides out the pandemic.

Owner Davor Fetahovic said while it’s filling a void, it’s only a temporary fix.

“We haven’t been able to collect money from personal training from clients, from classes, so it’s impacted not just the top line but the bottom line,” said Fetahovic.

In just two months, his gym has lost more than 80-percent of revenue.

As more and more businesses begin to reopen, gyms are still on the waiting list in Florida.

Fetahovic said if anyone should be able to open, it should be businesses dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle.

“You’re talking about a demographic that’s active that’s health-conscious,” said Fetahovic.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has yet to decide on gyms, bars, and nightclubs.

Mayor Lenny Curry said the city is ready to go to phase 2 and he let the governor know.

“I know he and his team are actively evaluating these things with data and medical professionals,” said Curry.

Another local trainer, Troy Graham, tagged Action News Jax on a letter he wrote to the state, stating “open the gyms”.

Fetahovic said he’s trying to be patient but he worries about the long term effects.

“When you flip a switch and say ‘you guys can re-open’, there’s still so many people out there that may not feel like it’s safe to go back,” said Fetahovic.

Body Control Gym said once it’s able to reopen all clients will work out in an 8 by 8 closed-off space, trainers will be wearing masks, and all equipment will be sanitized after each use.

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