Nenshi clarifies comments made about gyms and fitness centres
Posted Feb 26, 2021 10:04:34 AM.
Last Updated Feb 26, 2021 12:48:23 PM.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) – Calgary’s mayor is answering a firestorm of criticism over comments he made regarding gyms.
During a news conference this week, Naheed Nenshi talked about anti-mask protestors and restrictions and made a comment that only gyms and cultural institutions are still closed.
Some in the fitness industry are angry that he seemed to suggest reopening gyms wouldn’t make a significant difference in people’s mental health or the economic health of the community.
Nenshi posted a video on Twitter Friday morning clarifying the comments.
Regarding gyms, my comments that have been circulating were in the context of the ridiculous protests that are risking public health.
Exercise is a critical element of mental health. And I know that the fitness industry has been among the most impacted by the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/NSCo6uMVha
— Naheed Nenshi (@nenshi) February 26, 2021
The mayor added the fitness industry has been good about new protocols and is anxious to open so people can improve their mental and physical health.
During the news conference, Nenshi responded to frustrations from Calgarians wanting the government to “lift the lockdown.”
Nenshi noted the province is not in a lockdown as retailers and restaurants are able to open.