First Gym Trip During Quarantine

The locker rooms filled with people ,machines constantly being used by everyone, sweating all over everything. Not to mention, I could barely breathe while on the treadmill as it is! Jogging with a mask would not be possible for me. I was determined to sit on the couch and use Covid 19 as an excuse not to exercise for months to come, until I got the Planet Fitness email saying that I would begin to get charged for my membership again. The thought of $20 a month going to waste, was enough for me to lace up my dusty running shoes and make the drive. I figured, if I hated it I could always cancel my membership the same day.

To be honest I was nervous on what the regulations would be, and if I would be able to work out properly with a mask. I almost walked towards the T.J. Maxx in the plaza instead to avoid any awkwardness I could face. (I did visit T.J. Maxx aft workout as a reward). But I decided to just put on my mask and do it.

When I went in, I was greeted and scanned my card as normal, and then most likely seeing my confusion, as I was walking away the women at the front desk asked if I knew the new restrictions. I shook my head no and she told me the main points

-no showers or dressing rooms open

-limited locker space

-you can take the mask off for cardio machines only

-wipe down equipment before and after use

There was no one in the locker room either time I went in so I didn't have to worry about the social distance in there]and there were plenty of lockers open.I noticed the mouth pieces were covered on the water fountains, only the bottle filling part open. I also saw a sign saying do not drink out of the water bottle filling station and I wonder who tried that and made them write that sign.The gym was practically empty and made remaining 6 feet apart simple.

I first headed to the treadmill, many had a sign over them saying they were closed. I found one as far away from people as I could, wiped it down and started jogging. I am ashamed to admit that I only was able to jog for 7 minutes after not being very active the last couple months. And if I had been required to wear the mask during it, I would have maybe lasted one minute.

Next I went to the core workout area and did the machines as well as some workouts on the mats. Once I caught my breath from cardio, I did not find it difficult to breathe in the mask. There was only one other person at first so I chose the other side. As I was wrapping up I saw about 6 girls come into the small area. I did not stay to see what happened with so many people in a close proximity, but I am unsure what the regulations are if you are working out with people you know and if you still have to distance.

Afterwards I went back onto the main floor to do a few machines, but mostly to see if everything was open. It appeared that every type of machine and equipment was open, including the weights, just some in smaller quantities.

My overall opinion Is it safe to go to the gym?

I would say yes as long as you follow the guidelines. I did not see any, but I am sure there are still the people who do not wipe down the equipment so make sure you do before using it to protect yourself. And shower when you get home (which I hope everyone did before this anyway!) Everyone was also wearing their mask properly as well.

Is it worth the risk?

That is up to everyone to decide for themselves, as everywhere there is a risk of getting exposed anywhere you go, so you have to weigh your options.

I was pleasantly surprised and will definitely continue to social distance at the gym!