Gavin Harris, MD, infectious diseases physician at the University of Pittsburgh Medical said the returning to gyms at this time could be dangerous. “From a biologic and physiologic perspective, it’s a bad idea,” he says, citing that the novel coronavirus is spread via droplets, so people in gyms can easily spread it this way. He adds that the virus can also potentially last on shared surfaces for days. “Couple that with an enclosed space, the risk of exposure is exceptionally high,” he says.
When gyms do reopen, Harris mentions the importance of wearing masks for those working out and those working at the gym. He also says that one major problem with gym reopening is that no firm protocols from public health experts have been put in place for gym owners, so really, it’s up to individual gyms to create their own plans to help keep you safe and keep their spaces disinfected.
The number-one thing all gyms will have to do, according to Harris, is thoroughly clean and disinfect surfaces after every single client uses them, and create adequate ventilation, so air particles don’t hang around. Social distancing remains important at the gym too, he says, suggesting gym goers bring their own wipes and frequently wash or sanitize their hands throughout their workout, as well.
What can I do to stay safe at the gym?
First: Don’t go back to the gym if you don’t feel confident in its cleanliness—and don’t be afraid to ask about what your gym is doing to curb the spread of coronavirus.
As Harris mentioned, masks and your own cleaning supplies are always smart. When you’re at the gym, make sure to wipe down any equipment before and after use. Also, the same precautions stand of washing your hands as often as possible and not touching your face. “Health clubs are taking the extra steps necessary to provide a clean and safe environment, but everyone has an essential role to play—staff and members alike.
What will gyms look like when they reopen?
Life Time in particular plans to increase the frequency of cleaning, offer more disinfectant products to clients, and limit the number of clients allowed in classes and at the gym overall, Amy Williams, manager of public relations for Life Time tells Health. They’ll also have signs and markers throughout the gym to reinforce social-distancing rules, place weight machines farther apart, and only allow the use of every other cardio machine and every other locker in locker rooms.
Staff will also have temperature checks before heading into work and will be in masks. Williams says they’ll encourage gym-goers to wear masks as well, and clients will also have the option for temperature checks before entering the space. “We want to make sure members feel good, confident, and safe when they come back, so that’s swaying our decision [on when to reopen],” Williams says.
Popple says that while the IHRSA thinks it’s important for gyms to open, it’s also crucial that each one does so when they’re ready and have created a safe space. “To be 100% crystal clear, while we believe health and fitness clubs are vital to their communities and should be included in phase 1 openings across the country, we want this done as safe as is practically possible,” Poppler says. “On the state level, IHRSA is reaching out to all 50 governors, explaining that clubs will work with their state’s health department to ensure clubs open as soon as is possible when it is safe to do so in a way that puts the health of staff, members, and communities first.”
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