Nonessential businesses prepare to reopen in Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City Barbell owner says his gym has implemented strict precautions
Kansas City Barbell owner says his gym has implemented strict precautions
Kansas City Barbell owner says his gym has implemented strict precautions
Nonessential businesses can open for the first time in weeks Friday in Kansas City, Missouri.
Kansas City Barbell's new location is at 27th and McGee streets.
"We outgrew our old space at Holmes Street," owner Jay Ashman said.
After two years at the old address, the pandemic hit right as they were changing locations.
"Shutting down during a major move is also convenient. You don't have to rush to open up. However, we also couldn't have the help to move like we wanted for social distancing rules," Ashman said.
The new space is twice the size, and after months of zero clients in person, Ashman said he's pumped to reopen.
"We're definitely excited about it. We've been waiting for a while to open up. The stress of the situation was definitely real," he said.
Ashman said he is thankful that all of his clients stayed on. For their safety, he's implementing strict precautions.
"Come in, you wash your hands. You've got to wear a face mask when you work out. We have individual platforms here. One person per platform, you have your space," he said.
Each person must bring their own water. There's a transition for cleaning between each exercise.
"This ain't like going to a gym and you see some guy at the front desk who doesn't really care. We as owners are very invested," Ashman said.
He said he is most excited about seeing people.
"I love what I do. There is no way around it. I mean, I sacrificed a lot to get to this point," Ashman said.
He said strength training and power lifting improve the quality of life, and there's no way to measure its positive impact for his clients. Kansas City Barbell opens up at 6 a.m. Friday. Ashman said morning classes are booked.