Gyms move to Phase II

Published 10:49 pm Friday, June 12, 2020

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Gyms in Suffolk are slowly getting back to normal as part of the Phase 2 reopening from the coronavirus pandemic.

The Suffolk Family YMCA opened back up to the public with extensive safety precautions ready.

“We are being very intentional about opening,” said Katie Burgus, YMCA district vice president. “Our first priority is the safety of our members and staff.”

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When entering the YMCA, members get their temperatures checked, a spray of hand sanitizer, and contactless check-in. Signs are posted throughout the facility to remind and inform members about new regulations.

“We have at least two staff members on the floor at all times,” said Burgus. “They are there to clean and enforce proper social distancing.”

Before opening, the YMCA staff underwent hours of preparation. This included specialized COVID-19 training, as well as cleaning and preparing the facility.

“It has been managed very well,” said Charlotte Bauer, YMCA water aerobics instructor. “I have been pleased with how this has been handled.”

The YMCA will be closed daily between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. each day for a mid-day deep clean. There is an online capacity check so members can check wait times before coming out.

BURNfit Athletics in North Suffolk opened its doors for Phase 2 earlier this week.

“It has been a good transition,” said Tiffany Cosby, business manager at BURNfit Athletics. “We hope that we will be able to keep moving forward and go back to having our multiple classes again.”

The facility will still hold their classes, but they will be sign-up only and restricted to 15 members at a time. Along with temperature checks and contactless check-in, members will be given a cleaning rag and spray to clean their equipment as they go.

“The safety precautions are posted everywhere,” said Cosby. “We want to make sure everyone stays safe.”

Fitness studios, like C-fit Studios, are opening with precautions as well. Altered schedules are put in place to reduce foot traffic and contact. The floors are professionally cleaned regularly, and clients are asked to either sanitize or change their shoes when entering.

“We feel like this transition has gone well,” said Connie Womack, owner of C-fit Studios. “Clients have even complimented us and said we are doing well rolling with the punches.”

Due to the small studio, only 10 clients will be allowed at a time. Appointments and occupancy tabs have been put in place to help clients keep track of when to enter.

“We also have our virtual training to help clients keep their fitness goals,” said Womack. “There are even people from Canada and London who are joining in.”

All three facilities urge members and employees to stay home if they are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms or have any hesitations coming out. All three have at-home workout videos regularly posted on their Facebook pages for those not yet ready to come out.