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COVID-19

Gyms, fitness studios concerned about mental health effects from closures

Dec 22, 2021 | 6:28 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – As of midnight on Wednesday, gyms and fitness studios in BC will have to close their doors as part of BC’s latest COVID-19 restrictions.

The new health orders announced on Tuesday come as the Omicron variant becomes the dominant strain of the virus in BC.

The Movement Health and Human Performance fitness studio in College Heights has already had its last class until January 18th, another devastating moment for owner Dean Coleman.

“I think the absolute closure was gut wrenching,” said Coleman.

The Movement will be moving virtual for the time being, although the sense of community cannot be replaced according to Coleman who is worried for the mental health of many during the closure of fitness facilities.

The YMCA of Northern BC echoed the same sentiment for so many who will now have a difficult time staying active over the next three weeks.

“Physical activity is absolutely a core method of mental wellness, and particularly in northern communities, going up against this cold weather that is going to come in, it will have an impact, it’s very very challenging,” said Amanda Alexander, CEO of the YMCA of Northern BC.

With the full closure mandate for gyms, Coleman also wonders about the perception of gym space, and how it may be an uphill battle to get members back in the door once the closure is over.