As we leave our homes and head to working out in the gym there are things we can do to help stop the spread and protect others at the gym.

11 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO STOP THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 (and other infectious diseases) and PROTECT OTHERS AT THE GYM.

#1 WEAR A MASK-

As gyms begin to re-open many facilities are not requiring patrons to wear masks.  In order to be  Masks should only be removed when you are getting ready to physically exert yourself. are in designated workout areas, and are able to social distance.

Body First will require everyone to wear masks in common areas and to only remove them in designated areas and when they are physically exerting themselves. Man in workout clothes wearing a mask that covers his nose and mouth

SHOULD YOU CONSIDER WEARING A MASK WHEN YOU WORKOUT?

It depends. One of the most effective ways to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect others while in public is to wear a mask. However, working out in a mask is less than ideal and not recommended for individuals with respiratory issues or during intense workouts. Medical experts agree that people that have a moderately good level of fitness and that have no underlying respiratory issues can perform moderate exercise with a cloth face mask on.

Doing moderate to intense cardio with a face mask on may not be feasible, but stretching, lifting weights, or an easy walk could be.

If you choose to workout in a mask you will want to monitor how you’re feeling while exercising and watch out for specific symptoms such as lightheartedness, dizziness, numbness or tingling, and shortness of breath.

#2 EXAGERATE SOCIAL DISTANCING

When you workout you tend to breathe more heavily and are expelling droplets of saliva (which can contain the virus) farther than normal. The further away you can workout from someone the better. If possible try to face away from other exercisers while doing your workout. Avoid working in between the sets of others and using multiple stations at the same time.

 

#3 SANITIZE AGAIN AND AGAIN

Clean equipment with provided cleaning supplies before and after your workout.  

#4 CLEAN HANDS HELP KEEP YOU HEALTHY

WASH YOUR HANDS thoroughly or use hand sanitizer before, during, and after you work-out.

#5 AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE

Avoid touching your face after handling equipment, or touching common surfaces such as benches, door handles, etc.

#6 BRING YOUR OWN WATER BOTTLE AND TOWEL

Amenities such as towels, water fountains, and ice machines may be unavailable so plan accordingly.

#7 LEAVE THE EXTRAS AT HOME

By limiting the items you bring into the facility you are reducing the chance for the possible contamination of your personal items and limiting the possibility of spread. Consider changing before coming to Body First and leave the gym bag in the car.

#8 HANDLE GLOVES CAREFULLY

As long as you wash your hands, avoid touching your face, and sanitize equipment, medical gloves are unnecessary when working out.

In fact, medical gloves can give users a false sense of security. improper use often causes self-contamination and spreads the viruses on surfaces.

If you do plan on wearing weight training gloves, you may want to consider bringing a bag or container that closes entirely to hold the gloves once you’ve removed them. Remember to sanitize them after use and wash your hands.

 

#9 WORKOUT ALONE

Working out alone can help avoid closer proximity. If you are working out with someone do not share equipment. If needing to spot a friend put your face mask on. Practice social distancing and good sanitation practices.

#10 HEAD OUTSIDE

Experts are confident that COVID-19 is less likely to spread outside than indoors. In addition to being able to connect to mother nature, exercising in the great outdoors can help improve your mood and increase your motivation.

 

#11 TRY HOME WORKOUTS

Working out at home is a great option to reduce your potential exposure, and help stop the spread. Not only is it convenient, but it is also an easy way to get the whole family involved.

Picture of man working out. If you miss the motivation from being at Body First, check out Body First online personal training, the Body First  Fit or Zumba Facebook groups, or our online workouts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

WORKING OUT SAFELY-during the COVID-19 era.