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February 19, 2021
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A gym off California’s north coast is closing its doors after racking up nearly $1 million in fines for violating COVID-19 guidelines. California Ripped Fitness in San Clara County shut down for 6 months at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, but eventually opened indoor services, violating state orders. The owner of the gym posted a sign on the door while it was open, claiming the facility was exercising a constitutional right in peacefully protesting that health clubs are essential. Complaints from the public came in droves, and fines piled up to almost $1 million. Now, the gym is working with county officials to resolve the fees, and reopen in compliance with public health guidelines.
Updated on February 17, 2021 at 1:53 pm
NBC Bay Area
COVID-19 closures have forced many businesses to shutter their doors, and gyms are no exception.
But an East San Jose gym, California Ripped Fitness, has defied those orders for nearly two months as an act of peaceful protest. The gym was not hiding its health order violations either.
Signs on their windows read: We are exercising our constitutional rights to peacefully protest . that health clubs and exercise are essential.
Another sign on the gym s window says that their right to protest and stay open is protected by the First Amendment and Fifth Amendment, respectively.
California Gym Issued Over Half a Million in Fines for Saying Open Despite COVID Restrictions
On 2/5/21 at 12:41 PM EST
A California gym has been slapped with fines adding up to $550,000 by Santa Clara County for remaining open despite COVID-19 restrictions in place, and risks being issued more penalties if it continues to operate its indoor operations.
Under the state s tier-system, Santa Clara County falls under the purple widespread risk category. Gyms are only allowed to open outdoors in the purple tier and all indoor pools, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms are required to close.
Despite repeated visits and notices from county officials, California Ripped Fitness in San Jose has chosen to stay open for indoor exercise for months and has made no efforts to comply with county rules.