Will Gyms Survive Covid-19?

The Future of Fitness in a Post-Pandemic World
By Amanda Capritto, ACE-CPT, INHC

The coronavirus pandemic has profoundly impacted every industry—including fitness. As some regions see case numbers stabilize or decline, while others face surges, gym and studio owners are carefully weighing the risks and rewards of reopening their doors and returning to pre-COVID operations.

But here’s the truth: There is no “business as usual.” The world we knew before COVID-19 upended society and the economy no longer exists. We’ve transitioned from pre-pandemic to pandemic realities, and now we are gradually moving into an uncertain post-pandemic future.

For the fitness industry, the road ahead is still largely unwritten. In this article, we explore what might unfold in the coming months—when (and if) coronavirus cases decrease enough for gyms to operate normally again.

Gyms Reopening: Is It Safe to Return? A COVID-19 Guide

What Fitness Experts Say

A report by RunRepeat revealed that nearly half of those with gym memberships before COVID-19 said they don’t plan to return when gyms reopen. Americans, in particular, are the least likely to resume their gym routines.

Fitness professionals from diverse backgrounds are sharing their insights on the evolving landscape:

Will Things Return to Normal?
“I believe things will eventually return to normal. Nothing beats the energy of training in a group setting. However, gyms will need to co compete with at-home options like MIRROR or Peloton. Diversifying revenue streams will be crucial to withstand future crises,” says Gerren Liles, founding trainer at MIRROR, Equinox instructor, and owner of VizFit Apparel.

Prioritizing Safety
“The next few months could determine a gym’s survival,” warns Nicholas Rizzo, fitness research director at RunRepeat. “Gyms must proactively communicate their safety protocols. Members’ health and trust depend on transparency and commitment to safety standards.”

Digital Fitness Won’t Fully Replace In-Person
“Digital fitness won’t completely take over, but it will be an essential part of the fitness toolkit,” states Blair McHaney, CEO of MXM. “In-person workouts will continue, but gyms will need to address what members value most now—blending digital and face-to-face experiences to enhance engagement.”

Returning to ‘Normal’ Is a False Hope
“Reopening is just the beginning,” notes Joe Vennare in the FITT Insider newsletter. “From sanitization and social distancing to the threat of a second wave and the surge of at-home exercisers, a return to ‘business as usual’ is unrealistic.”

Cautious Reopening: How Gym-Goers Are Responding

Many who plan to return—or have already done so—are exercising caution. Rizzo highlights that some are eager and prepared, bringing their own cleaning supplies and practicing social distancing diligently. Others are more hesitant, prioritizing the safety of vulnerable loved ones.

Interestingly, community-focused gyms have seen increased memberships, as members trust and care for each other’s well-being more deeply than in traditional corporate gyms. This sense of community can provide comfort and confidence for those returning.

The Industry’s Shift: Closures, Bankruptcy, and New Norms

COVID-19 has hit the industry hard. Major brands like 24-Hour Fitness and Gold’s Gym have filed for bankruptcy or closed numerous locations. These closures reflect the financial strain caused by shutdowns and ongoing safety concerns.

Reopening gyms will require strict new policies—mask mandates, enhanced sanitation, social distancing, and restricted amenities. However, these measures may alienate some members, who see safety protocols as inconvenient, versus others who value their health and safety above all.

Digital Fitness Accelerates
Pre-pandemic, digital fitness was already gaining momentum. Now, it’s exploded—streaming services (like MIRROR, Tonal, Peloton) and app-based workouts have soared in popularity. Many brands are investing heavily in online offerings, recognizing that digital will remain an integral part of fitness strategies moving forward.

Charting the Path Forward

McHaney emphasizes that gyms focused on creating exceptional member experiences will thrive, while those slow to adapt may struggle. Innovation is inevitable as the industry continues to evolve in response to the pandemic’s lasting impact.

Liles advocates for gyms to reinvent themselves—offering unique, engaging experiences outside traditional workouts. Meanwhile, digital fitness will become more sophisticated, but quality and authenticity must remain central to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Rizzo points out that local gyms that adapt to community needs may experience growth, while others risk closure amid shifting consumer preferences.

The Pandemic’s Lasting Impact

Many have discovered the convenience and cost-effectiveness of home workouts—saving time, money, and energy. As a result, some may prefer exercising at home or in boutique studios that offer quick, efficient sessions.

People are now better at assessing trainer expertise and workout quality, leading to more informed fitness choices. Parents, in particular, appreciate the flexibility of home fitness, avoiding the need for babysitters or lengthy commutes.

This shift suggests a future where streaming solutions—hardware-based or app-only—continue to grow in popularity, transforming how and where we work out.

Exercise Is Evolving: More Than Just Fitness

The pandemic has changed not only where we exercise but how we approach fitness. Many shifted from high-intensity, high-volume training to more accessible, sustainable activities like walking, yoga, and bodyweight exercises.

This “always something is better than nothing” mindset fosters resilience and adaptability, proving that fitness isn’t solely dependent on gym equipment or fancy machines. In fact, the walls of gyms aren’t the only path to health and strength.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has brought upheaval, it also offers opportunities for innovation and growth within the fitness industry. Whether through embracing digital integration, fostering community, or reimagining the member experience, gyms that adapt with agility and empathy will emerge stronger.

The future of fitness isn’t about returning to the old normal—it’s about creating a new, more flexible, inclusive, and resilient landscape where everyone can find their path to health.