Many gyms are beginning or have already began the process of reopening. In my state there are guidelines set by the local government to ensure the safety of gym goers. Your state may be employing these same type of requirements. Whether these practices will be enough to impact the spread of COVID-19 has yet to be seen. Regardless, I think this is a good time to revisit some basic gym etiquette and employ some extra safety measures.
You should already be wiping down benches, machines, etc. after you use them. If you have not done this in the past it is imperative you start this necessary practice. In addition, you need to use a sanitizer which should be available from your gym.
If you are showing any signs of COVID-19 or a fever stay at home! It will only take one sick person to infect an entire gym and possibly close the gym down again. Nobody wants that so don’t be a meathead…stay at home.
Wash your hands frequently. Upon entering the gym head to the locker room and wash those hands. Also, once you are ready to leave wash again and any time in-between you feel it may be necessary.
Wear a face mask! I get it, it is super uncomfortable to wear a mask while exercising. Especially if you live in a hot climate. (Fellas, now you know what it feels like to wear a bra 😂) Most states should have guidelines on when to wear them.
Avoid touching your face. This goes without saying but do try to be more conscious of touching your face.
Increased social distancing guidelines. Exercising involves heavy respiration and heavy respiration involves the forced exhalation of small droplets (how COVID is typically spread). In a normal setting those droplets can spread up to 6 feet. To protect yourself and others around you a 12 foot distance should be practiced.
Avoid personal contact. I know you miss your #gymbros. However, now is not a good time to be fist bumping, high-fiving, or any other type of personal contact, especially with the use of hands.
Go at off-peak hours. It may not be the most convenient time for you; however, going to the gym when others are scarce can lower your risk of infection.
If you feel uncomfortable attending a gym during these uncertain times you are not alone. While many are flocking back to the gym many more are choosing to stay at home. If you have the option to run in your neighborhood make good use of it. Open air is safer than a closed in environment. Bands or a few dumbbells can still provide a good workout. As always, if you have any questions or need help with a modified workout plan just let me know!