Brick Gym Closing Permanently Due To Coronavirus Difficulties

BRICK, NJ — Tilton Fitness, which operated seven gyms throughout New Jersey, is closing all of its locations, including one in Brick, due to financial difficulties associated with the coronavirus outbreak.

The gyms, operated by Hackensack Meridian Health, had 20,000 members and had been in operation for more than 30 years, with locations in Manahawkin, Jackson, Northfield, Hazlet and Galloway, and Edgewater in Bergen County in addition to the Brick location. They were set to open a new fitness center in Atlantic City, according to their website.

All of the gyms will close permanently as of July 1, the company said.

"Unfortunately, like other fitness centers across the country, our facilities have been hit hard by the mandatory closures due to the coronavirus pandemic, forcing us to make this difficult decision," said Sam Young, president and CEO of Hackensack Meridian Fitness & Wellness.

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Governor Phil Murphy has kept gyms and fitness centers closed since mid-March because of coronavirus orders. He has not provided a date for when they will reopen but said Wednesday that he will allow individualized training sessions by appointment.

Researchers have stated gyms can pose a high risk for spreading the coronavirus because of the moist, warm air combined with a turbulent air flow from exercising in a confined space, according to Healthline.

But some gyms around the state have defied Murphy's orders and opened their doors with certain safeguards. Read more: NJ Gym Owner Leads Movement To Open Businesses Monday

Additionally, the owners of Atilis Gym in Bellmawr were once at the center of New Jersey's discussion to reopen businesses. The owners filed a federal lawsuit against state officials over Murphy's stay-at-home orders. Read more: South Jersey Gym Owners That Defied Murphy's Order File Lawsuit

Here is Young's full letter about the closure of Tilton Fitness:

Dear Tilton Fitness Members,

I am writing to share some difficult news. Tilton Fitness Powered by Hackensack Meridian Health will be permanently closing its doors on July 1, 2020.

Unfortunately, like other fitness centers across the country, our facilities have been hit hard by the mandatory closures due to the coronavirus pandemic, forcing us to make this difficult decision. I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you for your loyalty to the Tilton Fitness organization over the years and to our hard-working staff who worked tirelessly to support you on your health and wellness journey.

At Tilton Fitness, we have always prioritized our members and guests. We were committed to changing people's lives by promoting total health and wellness and providing the best customer experience possible. Our seven fitness centers serving roughly 20,000 members represent a lifetime of effort and devotion. As you might imagine, this announcement is heartbreaking. You are as much of a part of our life as Tilton Fitness was part of yours. You have our deep and sincere appreciation.

Some of you may have questions regarding your membership. Please understand that it will take some time for us to respond to all inquiries. To the extent that you have any questions or concerns, we will be providing you the contact information of the individual who will be assigned to oversee the orderly dissolution in the next few days.

I have always believed we are more than a gym — we are a community. A community I deeply care for. A community I will sadly miss.

Sincerely,
Sam Young
President and CEO
Hackensack Meridian Fitness & Wellness

Reporting by Josh Bakan, Patch staff

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