HUNTSVILLE, Ala. —
Like all public spaces where people gather, gyms and fitness centers are places where viruses and bacteria—including COVID-19—can spread. Places like Gold’s Gym have closed their doors for the next few weeks.
But, just how concerned should you be? And how can you protect yourself if you're still exercising in shared spaces?
Bender’s Fitness center is still up and running. But, Owner Phillip Robison, says he has seen a change. He says, “We have seen a little decrease in business.” Robison adds, “We also understand. If you need to stay home, stay home. If you have elderly people you need to take care of, it’s best not to be out and about right now.”
Bender’s says the gym is practicing thorough sanitation with additional cleaning crews to sterilize the equipment. Robison tells our reporter, they’ll be open for as long as there’s a need, or until the health risks cause them to shut their doors.
Sanitation stations line the walls of the gym. Robison says, “We are burning through a lot of solution and wipe-down stuff, which is great. That’s what I want to see.”
Equipment sanitation has always been available for members. But, we're told something new is helping to improve safety at Bender's Fitness. Robison tells our reporter, “Air purification right now, which is something we haven’t done before.”
Locals are still getting their workouts in, despite the growing concern of COVID-19. Robison says, “Everyone kind of jumped on board and has been all for the extra sanitation. Everyone’s doing their part.”
Some fitness chains like Planet fitness and Peloton are setting up online workouts for members. Benders is doing the same. Robison tells our reporter, “You’re able to get online, follow the workouts… follow the nutrition.”
But, Consumer Report shared a list of easy steps to follow to stay safe in the gym, if you're still exercising in public spaces.
- Try to Go at off-peak hours. The less people, the better.
- Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after touching shared surfaces.
- You can use sanitizer when you’re done with a machine. But, it needs to be at least 60% alcohol to kill the virus.
- Of course, stay home if you’re sick, keep your hands off your face, and remember to keep 6 feet of distance between you and other people.
- One of the easiest and most important things to do? Make sure you wipe off each machine before and after you use it.
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