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 Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher