Local gyms in Lincoln have been reacting to the news that they will not be allowed to reopen next month unlike most of the hospitality and beauty sectors.
Although pubs and hairdressers were given the go ahead to reopen on July 4, indoor gyms and sports venues/facilities were among those to be told they cannot return to business just yet. However, outdoor gyms will be allowed.
The Lincolnite spoke to four local independent gym owners, who spoke out with a mixture of frustration and looking positively at how they may be able to adapt.
Ryan Croft, owner at Primal Life Gym.
Ryan Croft, owner at Primal Life Gym on the Sunningdale Trading Estate, said the industry has missed out on its peak season due to being closed for more than three months.
He said: “We’ve been disappointed in how elements of this crisis have been handled by the government. This latest extension of the closure of gyms and fitness centres is further fuel to that disappointment. Not least because of the financial ramifications of remaining closed to the businesses in our sector.
“The fact that people are unable to enjoy and partake in structured exercise and gain the associated physical and psychological benefits that it brings is having a further detrimental impact on the health of the nation.
“We want to ensure the safety of all our members and the wider population and we can very much ensure that within all the current guidance, but we’re not being given that opportunity.”
He added that the long-term impacts won’t be realised for some time, but hopes businesses are able to remain flexible and get creative with ways they “generate income to re-balance the books”.
Inside Custom Fitness.
David Poole, owner at Custom Fitness on Dean Road, was also disappointed, but said it is “important to see the bigger picture and understand the wider factors that have dictated the decision”.
He said: “I would hope that the government could look at ways to segment the health and fitness industry – for a set up like Custom Fitness when total numbers of clients are relatively low compared to a standard gym. We are in a far better position to work effectively to UK Active guidelines.
“Ultimately it has given us the opportunity to prep even more for when we can put the shutter doors up and welcome clients back. Whilst it will be excellent to do this, the most vital coaching skills don’t require a roof – so my coaching team and I will continue to coach our members and adapt to the constraints that we have to work within.”
Kristen Ingraham-Morgan, owner at LN CrossFit, will be holding outdoor classes.
Kristen Ingraham-Morgan, owner at LN CrossFit on Earlsfield Close, is determined to put her energy into finding alternative ways to provide a service to its members.
This includes outdoor strength and conditioning classes for groups of six, including the instructor, which will start from Monday, June 29.
All of the equipment will be fully sanitised and the gym also has a steaming machine. There will be no sharing of equipment.
Kristen said: “Obviously for us it’s not ideal, but every sector is wanting to be open and somebody had to be first. It is what it is and we are focusing on doing the best we can with the guidelines given.
“We are a smaller gym and are able to maintain safe social distancing practices with the equipment and classes, so that we can still offer some training safely and legally. We can offer some outdoor classes and try and keep our members active.
She added that customers have been “extraordinarily loyal” with many offering to keep their memberships going during lockdown to help support the business.
Simon Ward, owner at Lincs FitBox in Bracebridge Heath, doing a virtual workout.
Simon Ward, owner at Lincs FitBox in Bracebridge Heath, said his gym switched to online classes for its members during lockdown and will continue to do so.
This includes a daily 30 minute session on Facebook or Zoom and also a Q&A session every day. The gym has also been liaising regularly with its members with meetings, where they vote on what will happen going forward.
He said: “It is disappointing, but at the same time the big thing about the decision is we are keeping our members safe, which is the main priority.
“Our business model works on groups of up to 10 in the mornings and then up to 30-40 in the evenings, sos this has a big impact on us for that. It is frustrating, but we have managed and will continue to get by.”
Elsewhere in the county, New Image Gym on Church Lane in Sleaford is adapting with a New Image “Outdoors” Gym under a large gazebo in the week commencing July 6.
New Image Gym in Sleaford has announced its latest plans.
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We are investigating following a house fire where a man has sadly died.
Officers were called to the incident in Farrow Road, Spalding, at 1.03am today (7 August) following reports of what was described as an explosion. The property has suffered 100% damage.
Despite the best efforts of emergency services and members of the public who offered assistance, a man in his 50’s was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
His next of kin have been informed.
Another man who is thought to have been passing by the property and offered his help suffered burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, and we are keeping an open mind as experts from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service investigate today. We would encourage people not to speculate while we investigate the cause.
Officers will remain in the area for the next few days carrying out enquiries.
Anyone who saw or heard anything, or captured the incident on doorbell camera or dashcam is asked to contact us. There are a number of ways to get in touch:
You can call us on 101 quoting incident number 43 of 7 August.
You can email: [email protected] incident number 43 of 7 August in the subject line.
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or you can give information anonymously online
Lincolnshire 30 Under 30, The Lincolnite‘s showcase of young up and coming talent and high achievers, is open for nominations.
Thanks to our sponsors, Sparkhouse, Ringrose Law, Streets Chartered Accountants, Lincoln College and The Strait & Narrow, publishers Stonebow Media are organising the celebration of Lincolnshire’s promising talent for this autumn.
In 2021 we received almost 200 nominations for our county’s rising stars and and we’re seeking those who have shone over the past twelve months from entrepreneurs, to athletes, artists and rapidly developing professionals.
We’re looking to hear from inspirational young achievers from all backgrounds and professional fields. You can nominate yourself, or someone you know personally or professionally who is making our county proud.
Nominations are open for people from across Greater Lincolnshire (from the Humber to the Wash), either living or working in our region (and beyond!)
Entries close on September 9. A reception event is scheduled for Thursday, November 10, at the Lincoln Cathedral Chapterhouse. Check out the 2021 celebration.
Why this matters
The Lincolnite’s 30 Under 30 showcase is a celebration of the best and brightest in Lincolnshire, putting our young talent on the map regionally and nationally.
Stonebow Media’s platform and channels reach unparalleled audiences, opening up further opportunities and recognition for those involved.
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