COVID restrictions have lowered substantially this year, which means gyms are open and many masks are off. It feels good to have some normalcy back, but what do you need to do to continue to protect yourself from COVID-19 and other germs in the gym? We asked Amy Kleski, director of retail operations at the OhioHealth McConnell Heart Health Center and Neuroscience Wellness Center. Here’s what she says about visiting your gym, along with tips for doing so safely.
Educate yourself about what to expect
“I think it’s a good idea as a gym member to either ask a staff member or call your center or studio and ask what their cleaning procedures are, so you know what to expect. Working out at a gym may be very different now,” Kleski says. “Since McConnell Heart Health Center reopened after our pandemic shutdown, our team has continued to maintain our many safety and cleaning protocols throughout the facility. I feel that many of the practices put into place as a result of the pandemic, should remain best practices for facilities such as fitness centers. Cleanliness and safety should always remain a top priority.”
Kleski points to several things that they have done and that other fitness centers may still do as a result of the pandemic:
- Social distancing: Equipment should be spaced out to allow at least 6 feet between members, or machines should be closed off to ensure members keep their distance. Class sizes should limit the number of participants. McConnell Heart Health Center began using an online registration system to cap their classes. Locker rooms should also be monitored for capacity.
- Cleaning and disinfecting: Fitness centers should continue deep cleaning practices. Kleski specifically calls out the need to use disinfectants approved by the Environmental Protection Agency. Members should also be disinfecting machines and equipment after each use. Associates at McConnell Heart Health Center circulate the floor, helping to remind members and clean as needed.
- Masks: Ohio’s mask mandates were recently lifted, so masks are no longer required in most public spaces. However, they are still recommended if you are not up-to-date on your vaccinations or are at an increased risk of infection. If you are fully vaccinated, masks are still a great tool for extra protection against disease.
Tour your facility
It’s important to take a moment to talk to someone on your gym’s staff. They should be well-versed in the safety protocols and procedures. Touring the facility will not only make you feel more comfortable when you go for your first workout, but can make you feel confident in your decision to return.
“If you haven’t made the decision to return to in-person exercise, I would recommend going and touring your facility,” says Kleski. “Visit at a time you normally work out. We’ve allowed that for a lot of our members at McConnell Heart Health Center. Come in, let us take you around and show you what we’ve put into place to continue to keep you safe.”
Take steps to keep yourself safe
- Wear your mask if you aren’t fully vaccinated and boosted, are immunocompromised, or simply prefer to.
- Don’t get too close to your fellow gym goers. Respect their space and yours by keeping 6 feet of distance between you.
- Clean and disinfect machines and equipment after each use.
- Check in on your health. Perform a daily health assessment. If you’re feeling sick or know you have been exposed, stay home.
- Change clothes before you go and limit your use of the locker room. If you need to shower after your workout, follow the facility’s precautions for doing so and try to limit your time as much as possible.
- Wash hands and use hand sanitizer frequently.
- Bring a water bottle. You may not feel comfortable using a water fountain and it’s always important to stay hydrated!
- Clean and disinfect items you bring to and from the gym, including reusable water bottles, headphones, your cell phone and any personal equipment.
Make a decision that’s right for you
Many people chose to jump right back into the gym, while others are waiting it out a little while longer. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it’s the right decision for your health and lifestyle. Ask yourself if you’re at higher risk if you return or if you could be putting others at risk. You may believe it’s something that’s important for your mental and physical well-being.
“I wouldn’t necessarily say you should base your decision about when to return solely on your age,” says Kleski. “Exercise provides huge physical and mental health benefits. Some people rely on their gym as a stress reliever. I think you have to balance your needs with how safe you feel in the facility. If you’re able and ready to return to the gym, know that it should be the cleanest it’s ever been!”
