Like gyms and leisure centres up and down the country, ABC Fitness has been made to contend with being unable to welcome fitness fanatics to their Progress Road facilities for prolonged periods of time due to the coronavirus crisis.

ABC Fitness has been unable to take advantage of the furlough scheme because of many of the personal trainers being self-employed.

But, having discussed the situation with wife Jemma East as the country headed into the first national lockdown, it was decided the firm would not allow staff to take a financial hit during the pandemic.

Jerry, 36, said: “I always try to find an opportunity to grow the business but it was catastrophic when the first lockdown was put in place.

Fighting through the pandemic - Jerry and his wife Jemma are still paying staff their full salary despite these tough times

“We worried if anyone would be coming back to the gym when we can reopen again and we couldn’t put any personal trainers on furlough, so my wife and I had to discuss what our break line is.

“It was decided that we would keep all of our staff and make sure they remain on full pay. We’ll keep doing that, even if it means we go bust, because we’re keen to continue supporting everyone who has worked closely with us over the years.

“We couldn’t stand to see anyone go bankrupt, so we’ll continue backing them throughout these tough times.”

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Jerry, a former Southend Rugby Club star, has made sure ABC Fitness members have not paid a penny while the gym has remained closed.

Members have been able to enjoy classes, listen to podcasts and take part in a free 14-day fat loss challenge thanks to the wonders of modern technology.

Jerry added: “We are one of only a handful of gyms in the UK who stopped taking people’s money. We care about the mental health of our members, so we didn’t want to take anyone’s money in these tough times. That’s something for us to be proud of.

Going live - Jerry has held question and answer sessions with members and also fronted a podcast

“Having already stopped taking payments, we have also provided more than 300 free classes during lockdown.

“There have been fitness classes on TV since the 1980s but we have gone the extra mile since putting classes online because we know people need help with their mindset and motivation.

“We have given members a challenge to help them get through lockdown. I feel it’s up to companies like us to step up and make sure we help the community.”

Every week we will be unveiling our Personal Trainer of the Week as we look to champion local fitness gurus across south Essex. To nominate yourself or a personal trainer you enjoy working with, simply complete the form below.