Going back to the gym post-COVID? Here’s what you need to know.
Thinking about venturing out to the gym? We are SO here for supporting our favorite local gyms, but we’re also here for staying safe and healthy! While we CAN go back to the gym, it doesn’t always mean we should. We’re leaving that up to you, but here are some things to consider to make an informed choice about heading to the gym.
Get a heads-up.
Call your gym before you head out to exercise! It may be limiting the number of members allowed in the space at one time, so you may be required to reserve a time slot in advance. Be sure to ask whether you’ll be able to use the bathroom or locker rooms, and ask about the gym’s policies and procedures for disinfecting, cleaning, and general safety of patrons.
Take accountability and keep your distance.
Several states have implemented policies like temperature checks to make sure there are no at-risk employees or gym attendees in the environment. Check yours before leaving home to ensure you won’t be putting the ones screening for temperatures at risk. Also, remember the importance of physical distancing! People working out are more likely to be breathing more heavily, which can propel droplets further. To be safe, consider maintaining a bit more than a 6-foot distance.
Disinfect and sanitize.
The CDC recommends that gyms and gym-goers make sure all machines and equipment are thoroughly disinfected and sanitized before being used. If you’re a gym-goer and want to be totally safe, you can do this with disinfecting wipes or hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. The CDC also recommends avoiding equipment that is shared and is not typically shared between uses, like weights or resistance bands.
Come equipped.
What should you bring in your gym bag when visiting the gym post-COVID? Make sure you wear a face mask (here’s a list of breathable ones to wear while exercising), disinfecting wipes or hand sanitizer, a reusable water bottle so you can avoid drinking from any shared water fountain (most are off-limits right now, anyway), and more than one personal towel- one to wipe your sweat so you can avoid touching your face, and one to cover any seats/benches with when on any equipment.
Advocate for your health (and the health of others!)
With so much going on, it’s important that you take note of whether the gym or any fellow gym-goers are sticking to safety protocols. If you feel uncomfortable with anything, know that you can have the confidence to speak up and let the gym know of any inconsistencies or issues Doing so will help keep everyone safe and healthy!
Stick with us here at StarterNoise to keep up on news, wellness tips, and tech breakthroughs during this crazy time of COVID-19. And get the scoop on the big things, follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
