Fitness Fans In Florida Protest Gym Closures By Doing Push-Ups And Squats Outside A Courthouse
A number of Florida protesters did squats and push-ups together next to the steps of a courthouse last Monday in an effort to get gyms across the state reopened.
Around 30 people came together in front of the Pinellas County courthouse in Clearwater, many of whom did not wear protective gear while standing in close proximity to one another, as can be seen in a video circulating the web.
Florida Fitness centers were shut back in March when Governor Ron DeSantis implemented a stay-at-home rule in order to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Gyms are to reopen come Phase 2 of the state’s post-lockdown-strategy, even though a final date for that hasn’t been set yet. Once permission is given, gyms will reopen at 75% capacity while following strict social distancing rules.
However, Monday’s protesters called for Fitness centers to be reopened immediately.
Did you see our protest in #Clearwater? #PushupProtest pic.twitter.com/s9kveEKz4j
— Open Tampa Bay (@OpenTampaBay) May 11, 2020
During the protest, a number of people did push-ups and squats – exercises that can be performed without the need for equipment or dedicated gym areas.
The video of the event showed people holding American flags and signs that read:
“We are essential.”
and
“Give me Gains or give me death!”
Today we will be joining Travis and his Amped Fitness team at the Pinellas County Courthouse at 10AM! All are encouraged to join us!
Posted by Open Tampa Bay on Monday, May 11, 2020
Gym enthusiast and Amped Fitness co-owner Travis Labazzo told WFLA a week ago that he thinks he could open the doors of his business in a safe manner.
“I have to hear from my employees. So no one was getting paid. I have to have my employees say I can’t feed my kids, I can’t pay my rent, my mental health is deteriorating. I’m going to have to deal with all that and then members reach out to me crying ‘please open up, I need my place, I need my sanity back,'” he said.
Check out WFLA News’ coverage of the story in the video below.
Do you believe that gyms should be allowed to reopen if they stick to the social distancing guidelines? Let us know by joining the conversation in the comments and please share this article if you’ve found it informative.
