Your gym and yoga studio have re-opened in Phase 3 with clear governmental guidelines in place to protect Canadians. These stringent implementations have changed the fitness experience that we knew before COVID-19 hit. Here are ten tips for what to expect before you decide if you want to head back to the gym. We are taking this opportunity to feature gyms all across Canada via their Instagram in support of all frontline workers working at gyms and studios in Canada and beyond!
1. Plan & Book Your Gym Visit in Advance
A regular visit to the gym may require advance bookings now, much like group fitness and yoga/pilates classes. This is to accommodate the physical distance requirements. There are definitely more avails outside of the lunch and post-work time-slots. Nautilus Plus in Quebec has an app that actually shows real-time capacity at each of their locations.
2. Be On-Time & No-Shows will Limit Gym Access
Check ahead of the cancellation and check-in policy for your club. For instance, Goodlife for members who are no-shows on their Club access bookings more than twice in a two-week period will be unable to book for seven days. Be socially responsible and show up.
3. Pre-Screening Required at Check-in
At check-in, you will be asked if you have any of the following symptoms: coughing, fever, sore throat or difficulty breathing. Please be responsible and answer honestly. Some of the gyms will also do a temperature check.
4. Wear a Mask that is Lighter at Gyms in Phase 3
Masks are now mandatory at all times in public spaces. This includes wearing one at the gym. In fact, masks are recommended for low-intensity workouts.
5. Plan Your Workouts Without Your Phone
You have an hour on the floor, so spend your time wisely. This is also a great opportunity to plan your workout for different areas of your body. Check ahead with your gym if the hour includes locker room usage before and after your workout. Our recommendation is to leave your phone in your gym bag and hit the floor!
6. Fill Your Bottle Ahead of Time
I personally fill my water bottle at home first before I head to the gym these days. Even though there may be some water fountains available, I’d rather come prepared.
7. Personal Training is Safer during Gym Phase 3
For those who need guidance for fitness, personal training is still an option.
8. Group Fitness Classes Are Now Much Smaller
There are many of you who do enjoy the energy of group fitness classes. But with the physical distancing requirement, classes are way smaller depending on the studio space. Check online to schedule yourself in. Alternatively, you can continue to workout from home and explore classes online like our recommended “Four Online Beginner Yoga Classes For You!”
9. Other Amenities May be Available for Gym Phase 3
There are also other services that you love at your gym. Generally, smaller perks are now available. We are looking forward to the opening of indoor pools soon.
10. To Shower or Not to Shower
This is definitely a tough one even for those who normal shower at the gym. The deciding factor is probably to find out what hygiene process isin place.
… and Remember to THANK the Gym Frontliners
Gyms in Phase 3 are committed to keeping you safe. The lock-down has not been easy for tall of us. Don’t forget to thank the gym staff especially the cleaning crew. Keep fit, stay healthy and wear your mask!
Source: COVID-19 Guidance for Gyms and Fitness Centres by InteriorHealth.ca
