How to stay safe when back in the gym
The last few months have been hard on everyone but there is light at the end of the tunnel! As gyms start to reopen here are a few tips to get you back in there safely.
Many of you may be wondering if it’s safe or wise to get back into the gym so soon. We know that gyms and sports centres can be germy places, as you would expect with a relatively high density of people exercising and sweating in a confined space. You can see how germs might spread easily. There is always going to be some risk involved in heading back to the gym but there are, however, steps you can take to mitigate the risk.
The first and most important is to make sure you disinfect yourself and the surfaces you touch at the gym, frequently. There are few things your gym might provide but you can always bring your own if they don’t. There should be hand sanitiser available when entering but it’s a good idea to take your own just in case and remember to use it after each piece of exercise equipment you touch.
Your gym should also provide disinfectant spray to clean the gym equipment and cloths for sanitising surfaces. When using disinfectant spray make sure to leave it on the surface for a minute or so to kill the germs before wiping it clean. You can also check what your gym’s responsibility is for keeping you safe during this time with your state’s health department. Just to be sure, it’s good practice to come prepared with your own disinfectant and wipes in your gym bag. It is also a good idea to bring a couple of towels, one for wiping away sweat and to reduce the number of times you touch your face and another to cover the equipment while you’re using it.
There will likely be requirements for your gym to ensure there is enough space to safely physically distance, like equipment moved further apart and treadmills and bikes separated. The number of people allowed back into your gym at any one time may also be limited so it might be worthwhile checking ahead to see what your gym’s policy on this is and if you need to book in ahead of time for your session.
It’s important to support your immune system so you can fight off illness and stay healthy. Getting the right balance of nutrients is essential for staying fit and healthy. Eating a variety of fruit and vegetables can support your immune system, but to make sure you’re getting the right immune boosting nutrients your body needs to fight off illness try adding White Wolf Nutrition - Greens + Gut Health & Immunity, ATP Science - Multifood and ATP Science - Gutright Daily into your diet.
During this time, it is important to weigh up the risks and benefits of getting back into the gym, so your personal circumstances should be taken into account. Outside of the home there will be some risks but there are also substantial physical and mental health benefits of exercising. You can help to mitigate these risks by following the above steps and ensuring you always stay home if you have even the mildest of symptoms.
Stay safe!
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