Cyprus Gym Owners Demand Crackdown on Illegal Gyms and Misuse of Physiotherapy Centres
The issue of illegal gyms operating in Cyprus has come under renewed scrutiny following a recent Audit Office report. Christie Panayiotou, president of the Gym Owners Association Cyprus (PASIGY), highlighted that over 1,000 gyms operate nationwide, but only approximately 380 hold official licences from the Cyprus Sports Organisation (CSO). Panayiotou urged authorities to conduct systematic inspections to ensure gyms comply with legal, safety, and health standards, emphasizing that licensed gyms adhere to strict regulations while unlicensed venues create unfair competition.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about physiotherapy centres potentially functioning as gyms. Panayiotou noted that some physiotherapy centres may offer exercise programmes, such as "therapeutic pilates," that exceed the scope of approved physiotherapy practices. She stressed the importance of distinguishing physiotherapy from organised exercise and called for immediate investigation to prevent misuse of the General Healthcare System (GHS) services.
PASIGY demands transparency, enforcement of licensing laws, regular inspections by CSO, and a clear division between physiotherapy and commercial exercise offerings. The association calls on the Ministry of Education, Health, and related authorities to act swiftly to protect consumer safety and ensure fair competition in the fitness sector.
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