Fitness and training facilities in Benton and Franklin counties can resume limited operations under new guidance released Sept. 11 by Gov. Jay Inslee. 

Indoor fitness and training facilities in the counties still in the modified Phase 1 of the Safe Start program are now allowed to operate under Phase 2 guidance, the governor's office announced. 

Gyms, yoga studios, dance studios, gymnastics centers and indoor sports facilities can open for personal fitness and training, group fitness classes, and practice for certain low- and medium-contact sports. Occupancy is limited to ensure proper physical distancing, and masks are required to prevent the spread of coronavirus. 

The Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce applauded the decision.  

On Aug. 28, the chamber, sent a letter to Inslee and Washington Secretary of Health John Wiesman advocating for the reopening of fitness centers.  

One of the reasons given for reopening was allowing “patrons to exercise in inclement weather conditions.” 

The chamber worked with the Tri-Cities Fitness Coalition, a group of 13 local business owners, to lobby for the change.