July 6, 2020

Dear Valued Members,

We were deeply disappointed to learn this week that Gyms are not part of Phase 4 reopening. We need your help! Please click on the link below to let Governor Cuomo know how important the Gym is to your physical and mental health.

Health and fitness centers play an essential role in the promotion and maintenance of mental, physical, and social health in their communities. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), physical activity and other lifestyle changes can prevent five of the top ten causes of death in the U.S. (before COVID-19). Additionally, evidence and studies show that physically active lifestyles can improve immune system health and diminish the risk of contracting some communicable diseases, including upper respiratory tract infections. During this lockdown, physical activity levels have declined sharply, which is particularly alarming given that obesity-related conditions seem to increase the risks associated with COVID-19.

In addition to the metabolic and immune system health benefits of physical activity, it has extensive mental health benefits. This is critical as many citizens are experiencing sadness or loneliness. Studies show that exercise can help prevent depression, and can be an effective treatment comparable to pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy. Exercise also has numerous benefits to people with substance use disorders, who are particularly suffering during a pandemic that addiction experts have called “a national relapse trigger.”

Catalyst has spent the last several months developing action plans to ensure the safety and health of our members and employees. We have rearranged club layouts to accommodate social distancing, created contactless check ins, hired additional maintenance staff, and increased accessibility to hand sanitizers and cleaning stations throughout the clubs. We will follow all State and Federal requirements because your safety is our top priority.

Thank you for being a valued member of the Catalyst Community. We appreciate any help that you can lend to get a message to Albany. Please share this link with family and friends.

https://ihrsa.quorum.us/campaign/reopennyhealthclubs

We look forward to seeing you back in the gym soon!

Sincerely,

Catalyst Fitness Management team.