NEW YORK — More than a dozen fitness studios across the five boroughs are suing the city and state demanding they allow group fitness classes to reopen. 

The lawsuit claims that it's unfair that studios in New York City are still shuttered while gyms, restaurants and other venues are allowed to reopen at reduced capacity.  

Under the city’s reopening guidelines for gyms and fitness centers, group fitness classes like yoga, pilates, and barre, aren’t allowed to resume due to the risk of spreading COVID-19.

At a press briefing earlier this month, Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi said that the city is still evaluating the risks associated with indoor fitness classes. 

"The reason that we do have a particular concern for indoor fitness classes relates to the fact that there are settings in which it is difficult to remain wearing one's mask or face covering, and also, it's one where it's more likely for the mask or face covering to become wet or moist, which also makes them less effective," said Chokshi. "So, all things considered, you know, this is something that we will continue to evaluate over time. But, because of those risk considerations, it is an area where we intend to tread cautiously, and carefully."  

Many studios have already closed permanently unable to make ends meet without a steady stream of clients.