(WXYZ) — For many, a Yoga class acts as a makeshift therapy session but it’s the kind de-stressor now at risk as Governor Gretchen Whitmer issues a new executive order forcing all fitness centers and gyms to shut their doors.
But where some have seen a defeat, business owners like Kacee Must of Citizen Yoga have seen an opportunity to conquer a challenge.
"The thought of not having people feel connected and stranded in their houses is what inspired us to invest our time and money into buying really good video equipment," said Must.
Video equipment has transformed her Bloomfield yoga studio into a filming studio of remote instruction, where staff is working around the clock to get hours of fresh content direct to clients who because of work requirements and the closure of schools, are confined to the home.
The fitness center plans to live stream and pre-produce videos for a newly jump started platform on their website, citizenyogastudio.com.
Citizen Yoga says it's about helping members stay connected and positive during a time when people are self isolating, not to mention offering an opportunity to pay staff and teachers during the closure.
But it's not the only metro Detroit fitness studio seeking to engage members using technology to get around the new order.
AKT fitness owner Deanna Alfredo, who operates locations in Royal Oak and Rochester Hills, says the franchise will be offering Facebook on demand with AKT streaming several times a day.
Alfredo says she hopes the continual engagement serves as a support to those who say they depend on the workout, as an escape from the anxiety produced by news surrounding the virus.
"There’s something about keeping yourself mentally fit that stops you from thinking about the world around you and what’s going on," said Alfredo of the studio that's expected to be closed until at least March 30th.