If fitness buffs are shedding a tear this morning, here’s why.

In a shocking email to customers sent Thursday night, founder Lauren Boggi of the Lithe Method announced the closing her three Philly studios immediately.

According to the email,

“Many years ago we attempted to open a studio in NYC and had an issue with a landlord in NY. Prolonged litigation ensued and as a result the landlord obtained a judgment against me. I have been trying tirelessly to work something, anything out with him so that I could continue to run Lithe, and serve all of you, Lithe’s wonderful, driven, loyal and inspired community.

Unfortunately, and beyond reason, the landlord has simply not compromised or relented. On Wednesday afternoon, I was surprised with a final action from him. He has seized and frozen Lithe’s bank accounts. These actions by the landlord have made it impossible for me to operate and I am forced to close Lithe Method, LLC immediately.”

According to the Betensky Law website, the NYC commercial landlord was awarded “$412,483.63 plus reasonable attorney’s fees” in May 2015.

Lithe was running a sale as recently as December 20th, and no word on whether there will be refunds.

Although the Lithe brand social media (like Twitter) recently waned, it looks like Boggi’s empire will reign… Boggi recently launched Lauren Boggi Active and was featured in Shape Magazine on Wednesday.

Photo: email

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher