Grand Strand gyms prepare for surge in new customers as 2021 approaches

HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF) - Gyms are preparing for more new customers since so many people have “improving their fitness” as a New Year’s resolution.

Amid a global pandemic, gyms need to take precautions to handle the surge of new clients.

At ISI Elite in Horry County, staff members are making sure their clients are keeping their distance during classes.

“We have 30 dots,” Head Performance Coach Kurt Mapula said. “That’s the maximum space. It’s actually eight feet apart instead of six. We wanted to make sure that everyone would feel safe being here at ISI.”

When gyms could reopen earlier this year, the folks at ISI made sure they put a lot of measures in place to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

They’re confident those measures will continue to work after the expected increase of new clients.

“We actually had to increase the time between sessions for cleanup and we actually had to get rid of one session at night so that way we can maximize the cleanup in between and we’re not here til 9 o clock,” Mapula said.

Mapula has a message for anyone on the fence about getting a gym membership.

“Just go for it,” he said. “I think there is nothing to lose, and when you sign up you’re betting on yourself. You’re betting on yourself that you’re going to do great, you’re going to do it and you’re going to get results and you’re going after it.”

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