Survival of the Fittest: Maine Fitness Industry Regroups After Pandemic Pounding

Renee Cordes

Source

Mainebiz

Date

9-20-2021

Pages

14-17

Abstract

When COVID hit, most fitness facilities -- gyms, clubs, studios -- were forced to close for two to five months; the industry lost $20 billion in revenues. Maine facilities were no different. Many closed for good, while those that reopened continue to struggle, sometimes offering remote or outdoor options or cutting prices. Paige Ferguson's CycleBar spinning studio in Portland is one of the businesses that is managing to move forward. Others that are featured in this article incude Saco Sport & Fitness whose owner, Scott Gillespie, created a new $250,000 outdoor training area. Still, he has lost around a thousand members and was forced to reduce his staffing levels. Smaller businesses have also adapted by offering livestreamed classes and incorporating mental health coaching. Planet Fitness franchises placed great emphasis on cleanliness and customer service in their response to the pandemic.

Full text is not available here. Please contact the Library for a copy of the article.

Share

COinS