Durham gym owner credits public for helping to keep doors open

Chan Little was not sure what would happen to her gym, the 360 Approach wellness studio, when they had to close down about a year ago.

"There was no playbook for that," Little said.

She did what came naturally to someone in the fitness world – she kept moving.

Classes were offered online and outdoors with safety measures in place. It wasn't easy, but it quite literally, paid off.

"So we did not lose a lot of revenue. I am thankful for that," Little said.

She kept the community she had created and they connected during the pandemic.

Michael Klein belongs to 360 Approach and says the gym has been crucial to keeping people together.

"That is giving us an outlet to be healthy and be outside and be together with other people in a safe way," Klein said. "That is amazing."

Another member, Connell Smallwood, agrees.

"Because of that community, I think she is being rewarded with the ability to expand, even during these tough times."

The 360 Approach remained healthy – in fact, it is making gains.

Little is expanding her studio space – more than doubling its size. Even though she is still not at full capacity.

"We are looking to be able to move back into this space easily, but we are not pushing anything right now," Little said.

For other businesses out there - advice you would expect from a personal trainer.

"Keep shifting, keep moving, keep pressing forward is my encouragement to all small business owners."

Little credits the community around her for their support of small business in a very crucial time.