Christie Kennedy - CORE fitness

I'd like to introducd Christie Kennedy, owner of Core Fitness.

How has Covid-19 impacted your business, and what have you been doing to adapt and keep moving forward?

We closed our doors on March 18, but within a week we had started online classes! All of our instructors participated offering Yoga, Bootcamps, Seniors classes, Group Power and many other classes from home using minimal equipment. We also rented out equipment and a lot of our members participated from their homes. We even did an online, at-home challenge with great local prizes to keep everyone motivated! Since we've reopened, we have put all the safety measures in place, including decreasing class sizes and the gym capacity. We are continuing to offer online classes and training to those who are not ready to come back yet.

What positive or uplifting things have you been seeing or experiencing during this time?

I loved seeing the Birthday party parades, hearing the clapping and horns for the medical workers. local businesses donating meals to seniors or front line workers, and the wine fairies!! Our business had many people reach out to us through social media or emails who wanted to continue paying for their membership (without getting any time credited back), just to support us and help us stay open. That was extremely heart warming. There was a lot of good things that came out during the isolation.

Have you been doing anything in particular to create joy or have some fun through this pandemic situation?

I have 3 kids at home, from 6-16 yrs so we did a lot of fun things like building massive forts in our house! It was also really fun teaching Live stream fitness classes from home - we often had our pets or kids jump into the videos. It made for some great bloopers! Now that we can get out again we are spending a lot of time at the lakes, paddling, biking and enjoying summer in the Kootenays!

Is there anything that you’d like to share, or wish people knew?

I think many people just expect businesses to be there when they decide to return. Its a reality that many small businesses are still struggling. We have gone above and beyond with our safety protocols and wish (and need) more people to return. I know it can be scary, but once you walk in the doors you will see how safe it feels and how good it is to be back! Staying healthy and fit (mentally and physically) is one of the best things you can do for yourself right now. And staying fit with a great group of people like the members at Core, is the very best way!