Member-only story
Do You Feel Safe From COVID Exercising In Your Gym Right Now?
Hardworking exercisers are expelling an alarming amount of spittle.
Two years ago, many gyms closed temporarily when Covid spread and became a pandemic.
The gym I regularly attended stayed open but instituted several changes they believed made it safer for members.
They separated the equipment by putting several feet between them. An employee was assigned the task of wiping down all equipment continually.
The classes were limited to the number of participants so that at least six feet were between each exerciser. To get into the class, one had to register online. It was a battle to get a spot — first come, first served.
I decided not to go at all. Six feet with a dozen other sweating, panting people didn't feel safe.
Some gyms opted to move the equipment outdoors if there was space. This worked well until the temperatures rose in the summer months.
My choice was to lift weights at home, hike the trails, walk through the neighborhoods and play pickleball outdoors.
Now that the rules have been relaxed and most Americans have received vaccines, gyms are open, and most are operating at full capacity.
