A business owner has started a petition to allow more people inside of gyms during the second phase of reopening Connecticut's economy during the pandemic.

Bridget McBride, the co-owner of the Bar Method in Fairfield, says even though gyms can reopen next week, with a studio just under 1,000 square feet it's not going to be easy to succeed financially.

McBride says she had to permanently close her Westport studio and many of her Fairfield clients have suspended their memberships during the pandemic.

"We can fit exactly five clients and one instructor," she says.

Under new state guidelines, people must exercise 12 feet apart if masks aren't worn.

McBride's petition, "Allow More People Inside Gyms," has nearly 1,000 signatures.

She is hoping Gov. Ned Lamont will make a change.

McBride's petition has also gotten the support of other local gym owners, including Fit Club in Fairfield.

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