SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — UPDATED: MARCH 19, 2020, 7 PM - In a post to Instagram, The Gym San Diego said it would comply with the county’s order and close starting on Friday.
San Diego County officials ordered all gyms and fitness centers to close Wednesday in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
Officials also banned gathering of groups of 10 or more people in one room as people worldwide practice social distancing.
Despite the orders The Gym San Diego located in Pacific Beach remained open to members.
"I just think personally, it’s being drawn out of proportion," said gym goer Daniel Rosati.
Rosati chose to show up to The Gym and work out, telling 10News he did not see a problem with fitness center choosing to continue letting people in.
"I think if people have energy and they feel that good, I doubt very highly they have the coronavirus," he said. "That’s just my opinion."
Rosati said he believes people were working out a safe distance apart.
"I know it’s very safe, there’s disinfectants everywhere, they’re wiping everything down all day long in between each person," he explained. "If anyone even slightly has the slightest cough or sniffle, the owner, Rick, asks them to leave."
The San Diego Police Department said The Gym choosing to stay open is in violation of the county public health order, which is a misdemeanor. Police officers can give citations and even make arrests.
However, officers may also just contact the business, educate them on the details of the order, and try to get them to comply.
"Everybody is using precautions and I don’t think that they should shut it down," said Rosati. "I’m hoping to come back later a second session."
10News did reach out to gym employees to try to get a comment about why the owner chose to stay open, but did not get a response.