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If there was a "most tasteless promotion of the year" award, a Wisconsin fitness center would certainly be a frontrunner for the trophy.
This week, Anytime Fitness in Wauwatosa began a new workout called "I Can't Breathe." The workout plan features an image of a kneeling man, and it ends with, "And don't you dare lay down." Needless to say, the move has spawned plenty of backlash, with one Twitter user writing, "Really concerned that Anytime Fitness finds mocking the death of George Floyd appropriate. Racism is alive in Wauwatosa." Another tweeted, "It is absolutely disgusting."
The corporate honchos with Anytime Fitness say they were unaware of the franchise's workout and have apologized.
The co-owner and general manager, Jen Dunnington, also issued an additional apology on Facebook for "how deeply offensive our words, illustrations and actions have been."
"No matter the intent, we absolutely do not condone the words, illustrations or actions this represents," a statement from Anytime Fitness read. "To our employees, owners and members, we are truly and profoundly sorry that this incident occurred."
"We remain committed to working to inform and educate employees and owners worldwide to stand for our black communities including our members and employees," the statement read
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