NewsNational News

Actions

CrossFit gym in Indianapolis closes amid backlash over canceled pride-themed workout

Posted at 4:33 AM, Jun 06, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-06 18:55:16-04

INDIANAPOLIS -- An Indianapolis CrossFit gym has closed its doors after intense backlash over a canceled pride-themed workout. 

A note left on the door by the management of CrossFit Infiltrate, located on W. 9th Street along the Indy Canal, says they will "no longer operate" at the current location. 

Several workers and members have left the gym after the gym's owner, Brandon Lowe, sent an email out this week canceling a pride-themed workout. 

The letter says members with questions about their membership or personal belongings inside the business can contact Johnnie Martin at johnnie@crossfitinfiltrate.com. 

Following a WRTV story about the canceled workout, CrossFit's Chief Knowledge Officer Russell Berger Tweeted early Wednesday that he encouraged the gym's decision to refuse to hold the workouts, and thanked them for standing by their convictions and "refusing to celebrate sin."

READ | CrossFit exec supports canceled pride workout, is placed on leave

That tweet along with others Berger sent to clarify his stance has since been deleted. 

The company sent a message a short time later saying Berger was placed on "unpaid leave" while management "completes a thorough review."

Lowe's email said the goal of the gym is total health and well-being of the individual and the community. It went on to say, "We believe that true health forever can only be found within humility - not pride."

Lowe sent RTV6 a statement about the cancellation of the workout, saying, in part "The gym has a history of welcoming and serving people training to be fit." and "The gym never has and never will be anything but welcoming to all human beings who live, move and breathe and God's world."

READ | Members leaveCrossFitgym after they cancel a pride-themed workout

Some employees have rescheduled the planned workout. It will now happen Thursday at 8 p.m. on the St. Clair Bridge on the canal. It's open to the entire community.