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Potsdam fitness center not reopening after state COVID-19 shutdown

Posted 9/15/20

POTSDAM — The fitness center at Body Shop Fitness and Salon will not reopen after being closed earlier this year due to COVID-19. “It is with a heavy heart that we have decided not to re-open the …

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Potsdam fitness center not reopening after state COVID-19 shutdown

Posted

POTSDAM — The fitness center at Body Shop Fitness and Salon will not reopen after being closed earlier this year due to COVID-19.

“It is with a heavy heart that we have decided not to re-open the fitness facilities at this time,” owners Penny & Randy LaValley said in an online statement.

Although the fitness center will close, salon, tanning, massage and nail services will continue to be offered.

“Unfortunately, due to the rigorous demands NYS has imposed on fitness centers it will not be feasible for us to reopen at this time. We believe the health and safety of our customers is of utmost importance. We don't believe that working out while wearing a mask provides a safe environment or enjoyable experience. Passing out while on a treadmill because you're wearing a mask and can not breath normally could cause serious injuries and we do not want to see that happen to anyone. Increasing risk is only compounded by our insurance company's decision to not cover any potential COVID-19 related claims that could arise from the fitness center,” the LaValley’s said.

“Additionally, the amount of staffing necessary to accommodate the extensive requirements to operate a fitness facility under the current guidelines for reopening in NYS are not viable. We would have to double our staffing due to the rigorous disinfection schedule, policing of patrons wearing masks and monitoring to ensure all patrons are adhering to social distancing guidelines. We can not operate at the NYS mandated reduction to 33% maximum capacity while providing twice the amount of staffing. We have spent many hours deliberating this decision and it was not an easy one to settle on, however the risks we face reopening are much too high at this time,” the owners said.

Those seeking refunds can do so at bit.ly/2Rv1Dqy.

Refunds will be prorated based upon the time remaining on memberships as of March 19 when the facility closed. Refunds will be issued by check and mailed to members.

“We will have a long list of customers to get back to and greatly appreciate your patience as we work through requests in the order they were received. Please do not make requests in person; all requests are being handled through our management team based out of another location,” a statement said.

For more info, email questions@bodyshopfitnessandsalon.com

“We are sad to say goodbye and will miss the friendships we've made with our fitness customers over the years,” the LaValley’s said. “We hope you'll find a chance to visit us again sometime soon.”