We respectfully petition that the Government of British Columbia reconsider this blanket closure of gyms and fitness facilities, and instead consider tried and tested alternatives to reducing the transmission of the virus in these settings such as a mandatory mask policy to be enforced at all times, facility capacity limits, and limitations on group fitness activities. Thank you.

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On December 21st, 2021, the Government of British Columbia announced revised public health orders intended to curb the transmission of the rapidly-spreading Omicron variant. Such measures include the closing of nightclubs and bars, restrictions on personal and public gatherings, and of note, the closures of gyms and fitness centres across British Columbia. 

The newly-announced four-week closure of these facilities is not only disappointing, but of detriment to the physical and mental health of the many thousands of British Columbians who depend on these facilities. Particularly during these winter months, it is not feasible to exercise outdoors. The vast majority of individuals do not have access to personal/home gyms. Moreover, physical inactivity is in itself a risk factor for worse outcomes following COVID-19.