A gym in America is dishing out free membership to 'all who don't get vaccinated' against Covid-19, saying the stunt it a response to news that Krispy Kreme would be giving out free doughnuts to people who have had their jab.
The Atilis Gym in Bellmawr, New Jersey, announced its controversial offer earlier this week, racking up a fair amount of criticism in the process.
Owner Ian Smith tweeted: "In light of @krispykreme giving free donuts for receiving the CVD shot, here at @TheAtilisGym we are giving out free memberships to all who don't get vaccinated.
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"We believe in health - the real way - exercise, good diet, plenty of Vitamin D, Zinc, and an environment to destress."
Many Twitter users said the offer was 'irresponsible', and that they wouldn't be visiting Smith's gym.
Someone commented: "VITAMIN D CANNOT GET RID OF COVID. THIS IS AN EXTREMLY IRRESPONSIBLE THING YOU'RE DOING."
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Another replied: "I'd rather get vaccinated and work out at home. It's obviously much more safe than being anywhere near you."
A third added: "This is gobsmackingly irresponsible. Young, healthy ATHLETES have DIED from this virus. No amount of vitamins and exercise is going to protect ANYONE. If that's all it took to prevent infections and death, we wouldn't have millions of people in hospitals and graves right now."
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Smith has previously hit headlines for defying New Jersey's stay-at-home order last May, and for blasting the state's lockdown rules after he was hit with more than $1.2 million (£870k) in fines for keeping his gym open.
According to Fox News, he also got banned by American Airlines after refusing to wear a mask on his trip back from the Conservative Political Action Conference in February.
The gym's free membership offer follows the announcement that Krispy Kreme is giving free doughnuts to any US citizens who have had their vaccine.
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The popular doughnut chain said on Facebook: "We'd like to show our sweet support to those who have received the Covid-19 Vaccine. Starting today, bring your Covid-19 Vaccine Card to a Krispy Kreme and receive 1 FREE Original Glazed doughnut.
"Haven't had a chance to get the vaccine? This offer will run through the end of 2021."
The offer started on 22 March, and can be claimed in any of Krispy Kreme's 369 US shops anytime, any day, every day for the rest of the year.
The only catch is that you don't get to choose which doughnut you get, as it's the original glazed doughnut only.
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Chief marketing officer Dave Skena told Insider: "Whatever little things brands can do to help make it past the pandemic are good things.
"I hope that other brands will see and choose to do something similar."
He added that getting vaccinated is a 'personal choice', but the company wants 'to encourage and make sure nothing is standing in the way'.
LADbible has reached out to Atilis Gym for comment.
Featured Image Credit: Facebook/Atilis Gym