When the global pandemic struck the world, gyms and fitness facilities were some of the first businesses to be closed in order to reduce infection rates – and in many places that is still the situation right now with Covid-19. However, as many efforts have been made to flatten the curve, the situation in some places has become much better and so plans have been implemented for these places to reopen.
If you live in a place where gyms and fitness centers are reopening, it is important to take the correct measures to stay protected. Here are 6 tips on how to stay safe from CoronaVirus whilst working out.
1. Practice Social Distancing
Working out and exercising at the gym often means pushing our body to its limit, and as a result, our breathing becomes heavier. This leads to more respiratory droplets being produced and projected than when we engage in a normal conversation. The experts from one gym in Oakland explain that because of this, it is even more important to practice social distancing at the gym and follow the guidelines of staying at least 6 to 8 feet away from others. In Oakland and other parts of California where the curve is flattening, people are being mindful of close-contact sports and to ensure the safe distance between themselves and other people. In many gyms, these kinds of activities have not yet resumed.
2. Prepare Protective Measures
While wearing a mask is essential when going to a public place like a gym, it may be frustrating since it can reduce the effectiveness of training and make you uncomfortable. Unfortunately, this is far better than getting sick or spreading the virus, so always wear a mask when working out. Likewise, many people are wearing medical gloves when they go out but this can make it very hard to grip weights or use the machines. Instead of wearing gloves, wash your hands correctly and frequently during your workout. Bring hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes for cleaning your equipment before and after use, and prepare your own water bottle, sweat towel, and yoga mat.
3. Avoid group classes
Group classes are often provided by many fitness facilities but during a pandemic, it is in your best interest to avoid these classes. In-person classes with high-intensity training and a lot of participants are the ideal environment for infection to spread. The same goes for a regular workout if your gym is regularly packed with people, so whether you are an early riser or a night owl, make sure you head to the gym when it is not crowded.
4. Take Precautions with Equipment
Fitness equipment is an essential part of any gym, and as mentioned above, make sure to bring your own disinfectant wipes and wipe down your equipment of choice. Sweating and touching your face when working out is a common habit, and touching the surface of machines and equipment afterward means that we are constantly exposing and saturating it with germs. Try to stay mindful of how much you touch your face when using equipment, even if it is sanitized.
5. Skip the Locker Room
Lockers and changing rooms are most likely to be closed during the pandemic, but in case they are still open, it is wise for you to avoid them altogether. Do not use the amenities like showers, saunas, or restrooms at the gym; instead, just wait until you get back to your home to shower and relax.
Use one towel for wiping your face, another for covering the seat of equipment, and remember to change them frequently. After a workout, just get out to an open space to rest for a little bit and then head home as quickly as possible.
6. Stay at Home if you Feel Unwell
If you have any symptoms of being sick like a nagging cough, fever, or loss of smell and taste, it is recommended that you stay at home to keep yourself and others safe. Trying to get out there and work out is the worst choice that you can make. Instead, just stay at home and get in touch with your health care provider immediately. The same goes for older people with health issues that are at higher risk of serious illness. In these times, going to the gym is certainly not the best idea; instead, try virtual classes or online training to help you stay in shape.
You can also get tested safely at home with an in-home COVID-19 testing service such as an in-home COVID-19 testing service, which brings the nasal swab test and/or antibody test to you. Your results return within 48 – 72 hours of your test.
As the pandemic has struck, we have had to rethink how we exercise. Whilst Staying home is still the smartest choice if you are itching to get back in the gym, make sure you are prepared. Follow these tips to keep yourself and everybody else safe whilst you are working out at the gym.