BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — We've seen and heard so many stories of places closing for good as a result of the pandemic, as many others struggle to stay afloat. One gym, that has several locations around Bakersfield, is dealing with financial hardships, as they continue to make adjustments to keep their business alive.
23ABC's Bayne Froney has more with the CEO of In-Shape who explains how they are taking precautions to ensure that gym-goers are being safe.
Despite the fact that gyms can't be open indoors In-Shape has created a new space so that people can still be safe while getting in shape. Still, CEO Francesca Schuler said 2020 has been a tough year for so many.
"It's been a heartbreaking year for us."
It's been a tough year for lots of businesses, including the fitness industry. Gyms have seen a decline in customers, leaving lots of them running out of options on how to stay open
"We have been very conservative on the cost front. We are down to a very lean team, but we needed to raise some more capital and we are fortunate to have some new investors," said Schuler.
In-Shape has opened and closed a total of three times this year, with their most recent financial decision coming in the form of filing for bankruptcy but as Schuler said this move helps keep them going.
"We are not going out of business. We need to restructure. We are a by-product of 10 months with no revenue. We are not the only ones in this situation, small businesses, big businesses."
Lots of other businesses find themselves in similar situations as a result of the pandemic. Schuler said it's also about adapting in this ever-changing time.
"We feel strongly that we need to support public health and their rules so we've done several things to pivot to try and adapt in today's world."
This includes creating an outdoor gym experience. In-Shape has utilized its outdoor space so that the community can still work out while being safe.
"We've implemented many many safety protocols including a reservation app, sanitation, and cleanliness."
Despite challenges, Schuler told 23ABC that they are continuing to work with public health so that hopefully soon, they can reopen their doors.
"We believe fitness is part of healthcare. There are three things that you can do to stay healthy, eat well, exercise, and sleep and so we believe that we are apart of preventative healthcare and we can't wait to open our doors and bring people back."
In-Shape has also created a digital way to work out for those who still want to get in shape but may want to do so from home.
