Exercising Safely When Gyms Reopen

As the country edges slowly towards reopening from the COVID-19 quarantine, businesses are putting in place plans to safely get back to normal (or the new normal) operations. Gyms and Fitness facilities are no exception to that.

Some of these precautions we already know and should be practicing by now. Other restrictions may be mandated by the CDC, state or local municipalities. Here are some examples of these infection-control measurements that you may see at your local gym when they reopen and how to go about using them to exercise safely:
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• Maintain Social Distance: This is one of CDC's most important precautions, however it may be tricky in a gym environment (how the equipment is spaced out). Expect gyms to limit the number of people on equipment or move equipment around to insure adequate spacing among members.
• Wear a Face Mask: Expect this mandate to be enforced at the gym. While some activities at the gym maybe OK with a mask on (weight lifting, yoga, and any low-impact activities). Other high-demanding routines like running or boot camps may be unsafe with a mask on, especially if you have asthma or COPD. Consult your medical provider before exercising with a mask on.
• Limiting Number of Members on the floor at any given Hour: Expect gyms and fitness facilities to open up with reduced capacity. Call ahead to inquire about capacity limitation. Also try to go in the off-peak hours (between 9AM to 3PM or after 7PM) where it's normally less crowded.
• No Classes or Limiting Number of Participants in a Class: Exercise classes usually are the most congested spot in the gym. Some gyms may not offer classes, and other services like child care and swimming pools right away. If your gym is offering classes after reopening then try to show up early and pick a spot with adequate ventilation.
• Mandatory Wiping of Equipment BEFORE & AFTER each Use: This is a common gym etiquette (usually most people wipe after they use the equipment). Gym will be expected to enforce this rule more actively after reopening. Look for disinfectant stations and wipes and wipe the equipment before AND after using it. Don't forget to wipe other items like dumbbells and resistance cable handles. Use a new wipe with every machine.
• Bring Your Own Mat: It's not uncommon to see people bring their water bottle or even towel with them to the gym, but expect some gyms to request that you also bring your own yoga or exercise mat with you. If not, ask if you can bring your own mat for added precaution.
• Use Gloves, Wash Your Hands and Don't Touch Your Face: Expect gyms to mandate the use of gloves when using equipment. Discard disposable gloves in the trash after each visit. If you prefer to use your own workout gloves then remember to wash them more often. Never touch your face with gloves on and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially if they were exposed to surfaces at the gym.
• Stay Home If You Are Sick or at high risk for COVID-19: You may be tempted to get back to the gym, but consult with your physician first, review the gym's safety procedures, and stay home if you are sick or at high risk of getting infected.

So, whether you decide to continue exercising at home, or hit the weights at your local gym, staying active is proven to boost the immune system and help fend off infection. Staying extra cautious while exercising is more vital now than ever, especially during this time.
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Stay Active, Stay Safe!