As a member of the fitness industry in Alabama, I was excited to hear about the prospect of reopening for business as part of the phase-one federal roll out. With the tragedy that has been the pandemic of COVID-19, that has done such tremendous damage  to our state both economically and socially. We all have done our civic duty and closed the doors to our studios and fitness centers for an extended period of time without industry push back. 

However, as business is beginning to be allowed to return, the fitness industry has been deemed non-essential once again. We are Americans and put our employees and clients first; this patriotic move, on our behalf, was done while other industries have seen staggering success ignoring regulations and endangering their employees through half measures. There are major retailers that sell essential products like mulch and birdseed while providing cheap masks to overburdened employees. As a further extreme example of the now: people can go buy essential swim suits that have been tried on by multiple people and hung back up unwashed, people can crowd together in box stores touching multiple surfaces, people will be touching unsanitized items frequently that can change hands multiple times a day, the list can go on. 

Gyms are very clean despite common misconceptions. Studio gyms and fitness centers frequently clean with anti-viral and other strong cleaning agents. Many studios, like the one I work at, clean equipment consistently after every workout. We wipe down handles and other high contact surfaces hourly. We clean from the top down hourly and daily even before the "Lock Down". We have structured plans in place to screen clients and employees for fevers. Structured plans in place to further expand our cleaning and sanitation to the point it could be considered overkill.

My point is this: We are organized to provide service in alignment with regulations that our government provides for social distancing. We are prepared to meet and exceed essential business standards of cleanliness. We expect to be held to high standards during this time and we want to reopen our gyms to our clients. 

Is it not the time to reopen this industry in Alabama? The fitness industry and our many employees are suffering greatly due to loss of income.To many the gym is an avenue that controls their vices. It is crucial to the survival of our businesses and staff that we open our doors again as soon as possible. If our industry can behave within the guidelines of reason and follow logical and safe practices, is it not time to be considered essential? People need fitness for both mental and physical wellness I understand why retail is so important for the sales tax to the state. But lets put peoples health and fitness first for a change. 

Thank you for your support.