Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, everything across the world was shut and now, things are resuming under the unlock phase.
Gyms and yoga centers didn’t get a nod of approval to re-open despite the fact that various services resumed as the risk it posed was higher but now, the government has allowed the re- opening of them from August 5; condition that it should be outside the containment zones.
Furthermore, in order to prevent the spread of virus, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has also issued detailed guidelines on preventive measures that need to be taken at these centres.
Here’s a list of instructions given to the fitness centres by the government :-
Before opening
- The equipment should be placed at a distance of 6-ft from each other.
- Disinfection of the premises shall be regularly done using clinically approved disinfectants.
- With the use of a floor or wall markings, arrangements have to be made for specific pathways for entering and exiting exercise areas within closed spaces.
- The number of staff and members should be limited within the general gymnasium floor.
- Spas, saunas, steam baths and swimming pools shall remain closed.
After opening
- Based on the size of the room and the nature of the fitness activity, the number of people allowed in a group fitness class should be restricted.
- Ensure sessions are tailored to include only exercises that do not require physical contact between the trainer and the clients.
- The oxygen saturation level of each member should be checked using a pulse oximeter. The ones below 95% oxygen saturation should not be allowed to exercise.
- Persons above 65 years of age, persons with co-morbidities, pregnant women, and children below the age of 10 years will not be permitted.
Here’s what doctors have to say about safeguarding yourselves in this time.
Aggressive social distancing
It is important to ensure that you are always 6 feet away on all four sides, from the next person, and don’t spend more than 5 minutes talking to one person. Talking with a mask can cause accumulation of germs, and can cause it to fall off the nose while speaking.
Think that everyone around them is COVID positive. Keeping this is mind, it will be easier to resort to the habits which helps in fighting virus like social distancing, wearing masks, and washing hands. Considering the number of cases in every city, and the speed at which the virus is spreading, it is best to avoid crowded spaces.
Avoid Air Conditioned rooms
If you are planning to hit the gym, ensure that it has good air ventilation, or have an outdoor setup because in the absence of air circulation, the virus can spread rapidly from one person to another.
Carry your Personal Protective Equipment along with sanitiser and spare masks
The equipments are used by multiple people. Although, under the fresh guidelines, it has been instructed to sanitise them after every use, it is safe and good to wash hands with soap or sanitise them. To further keep yourself safe, you can wear surgical mask whilst working out but be careful, if you start to sweat too much, it’s time to safely dispose of the mask and wear a fresh one.
Carry your own mats and water bottles
Although gyms have a common provision dedicated to drink water but since it can be used by multiple people, it’s best to carry your own bottle of water.
Last but not the least, if you live with elderly people, young children or a person with co-morbities, ponder over your decision of joining gym as your decision can put others at risk.