Many gyms and fitness centers, such as Equinox, are planning on reopening, and it is welcome news for avid gym-goers. But there are strict safety protocols that should ideally be followed to the letter to minimize the spread of Covid-19. Most of these protocols seem paranoid, even the work of germaphobes and sci-fi writers, but these are vital in the new normal.
As the old adage says it, it’s always better to be safe than sorry! With nearly 120,000 deaths as of writing from Covid-19 in the United States, it’s as true as ever.
Stay Home Under Certain Circumstances
You may be eager to return to the gym and we understand. But if you have any symptoms of Covid-19, you shouldn’t go to the gym! Instead, you should seek medical opinion as soon as possible.
(If you have flu-like symptoms, as well as fever, shortness of breath, coughing or diarrhea, you shouldn’t panic. But getting prompt medical attention is a must.)
Know the Rules Before You Go
Every gym has different rules about their clients entering their premises during the pandemic. You should then call ahead and ask about your preferred gym’s safety protocols.
These can include but not limited to:
- Performing temperature checks
- Instructing clients and staff to wash their hands at a washing station or using a disinfectant before entering the gym
- Limiting the number of clients inside the gym and the number of people in a class or room for physical distancing purposes
- Closing many of the public areas, such as the locker rooms, showers and saunas, to avoid the spread of the coronavirus
- Asking the staff and clients to wear masks at all times
- Conducting regular disinfection or sanitization of the equipment and facilities
You should then make adjustments in your gym habits in light of these changes.
Be Flexible with Your Plans
In pre-pandemic times, you may have lingered in the gym while waiting for the squat rack to be available. You may have socialized with others, too.
But these activities are strongly not recommended! You should minimize the time spent in the gym and minimize your exposure. Essentially, you have to get in, do your workout and then get out.
You should be flexible, too. If you see the weight room already crowded, you may want to head to the cardio room where there are only a few people. You’re still getting your exercise although it isn’t the one you planned on.
Gyms can be safe places despite the pandemic. But every staff and client should do their part in keeping them so!