Protesters Demanding Gyms Reopen Do Push-Ups Outside Of Florida Courthouse

Around two dozen protesters gathered outside of a Pinellas County Courthouse in Clearwater, Florida, demanding that officials allow gyms to reopen. The protesters were not wearing masks or adhering to social distancing guidelines. At one point, the group began doing push-ups and squat thrusts on the sidewalk.

Fitness centers across the state were closed down when Governor Ron DeSantis issued a safer-at-home order to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Last week, DeSantis announced that Florida was in phase one of the state's plan to reopen. While some businesses, such as nail salons and barbershops, will be allowed to open, gyms and fitness centers will remain closed until the state reaches the second phase of its reopening plan.

Officials have not said when the state will enter phase two but laid out guidelines for businesses, so they will be ready to reopen. Under the social distancing protocols, gyms will be limited to 75% capacity and will have to sanitize all equipment after it is used.

Photo: WFLA-TV