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Local gyms offering free at-home workouts while closed

Posted at 5:16 PM, Mar 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-21 23:51:18-04

LAFAYETTE — The coronavirus pandemic may be keeping gyms closed, but it's not keeping trainers from helping people stay healthy. Here in Lafayette, Headkicks Martial Arts and Fitness club is making sure people still get their daily workout in - just from their own living room.

Coach Damon Vincent says on an average week night, more than 60 members will work out.

"In the evenings, both mats and sometimes the cage is full, this whole place is packed," Vincent said.

Now the gym is empty, except for a TV, a phone, and two coaches. But the changes aren't keeping owner Aaron Phillips from helping others stay fit. Phillips has begun hosting a 30-minute workout with Vincent from the Headkicks Facebook page. Members of the gym join in using a video chat service called Zoom and can join in the workout - from their own living rooms.

"Whenever you stay in a positive routine with positive people, even if that's virtually, we believe that's what gives people hope to make it through hard times," Vincent said.

A fair warning, though - the workouts may be a little intense.

"It's on a time basis, so you can go as hard or light as you want for 30 seconds. We're trying to get after it, all you need is a pair of dumbbells," Vincent explained.

While it isn't what they're used to, these coaches are making the best of it.

"Yeah it's a down side, we want to be in touch with people in class, have the hugs, but we're going to get through this," Phillips said.

Anyone can watch and be a part of the online workout. The adult workouts will be held at 11:30 am on Monday-Saturday. A kid's workout is scheduled at 4 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays.On Tuesday and Thursday evenings, a body focus class will take place on the Unique Fitness page

Acadiana Karate is offering a free two-week trial for kids to workout in their virtual dojo martial arts classes. The Facebook group is private; those interested should send a request to join and use code “kicking the virus."

In Youngsville, Revive Performance Training is offering an 8-week body weight athletic development program, also for free. For more information and how to access the program, click here.

Other gyms offering some type of at-home videos include Orangetheory,Fhitting Room,Lululemon,Planet Fitness, and the YMCA.

If you know of any other gyms offering at-home workouts, email us!