Gyms are still very much trying to adapt to the post-COVID19 reality and any news on them is probably going to be subject to change, possibly at short notice. That said, here is a quick guide to the current rules, guideline and etiquette of going to the gym.
Book ahead and show up (or cancel)
You’re almost certainly going to have to book ahead even just to use the equipment itself. If you want to go to a class or use the pool, then you’ll definitely have to book ahead. Remember numbers will be limited so if you do book make sure to show up or actively cancel so that someone else can take your place. It’s polite at the best of times and these days it’s vital.
Stay alert to mask rules
At present, the law does not require you to wear a mask in the gym, although some facilities might. Others, however, might not as there are concerns about impeding oxygen flow during exercise. Basically, make sure you stay up-to-date on the law and your gym’s policy.
Try to shower and change at home
At present, gyms are keeping changing rooms open for those who really need them, but are advising people to shower and change at home as much as possible. Depending on what you’re planning on doing, you may need to bring a change of shoes with you, but if you can arrive (and depart) just wearing your gym kit, it is likely to be much appreciated.
Keep your personal items in a sealed bag
You’re probably going to have to bring some bits and pieces with you, even if it’s only the basic necessities of purse/wallet, keys and phone. If they won’t fit in a sealed pocket, try to put them in a bag which seals properly. In fact, you might want to consider putting them in ziplock bags and putting those bags in your main one.
Be prepared to have your contact details checked/collected
If you have a gym membership, there’s a good chance you’ll be asked to confirm that your details are up-to-date. If you don’t, then they’ll almost certainly be collected for the “track-and-trace” system. Remember to leave time for this.
Use the hand sanitising stations
Showers might be out (or limited) but hand-sanitising stations are very definitely in. Either use them or bring your preferred choice of hand sanitiser and some moisturising cream if you feel you need it.
Make sure you understand where you’re supposed to be
Make sure you’re clear on how the social-distancing rules work, i.e. where you’re supposed to go and not go. If it’s not clear, then ask. Staff would rather you asked than made mistakes which could put you and/or someone else at risk.
Stick to your allocated schedule
Your gym will be doing the best it can to get customers back and keep them happy. Part of this will involve running a schedule which allows as many people as possible to get a decent turn on the equipment (or in the classes or pool) while still allowing for sufficient cleaning in-between sessions. People being late to leave can disrupt this schedule so make sure that you’re ready to go when you should. If you’ve arrived late and missed out on time, then you’ll just have to own that one, even if it wasn’t due to your poor time-keeping.
Be careful about sharing equipment
Try to avoid sharing equipment at all but if you must then clean it before you transfer it and try to limit contact with the other person or people.
Try to keep your mouth shut (and your voice down)
This may be a challenge at the gym but remember that COVID19 can be spread through breathing with your mouth open and through shouting so try to avoid the former as much as you can (in a gym) and the latter completely.
