CAMDEN COUNTY, NJ — Earlier this month, gyms in New Jersey were permitted to reopen at 25 percent capacity amid the coronavirus pandemic. Customers also have to wear face coverings, and on Wednesday, Camden County officials issued additional safety tips gym users can follow to protect themselves. Those tips can be found below.
“While no safety measure can completely eliminate the risk of contracting COVID-19, there are several ways you can reduce the risk posed by an indoor gym,” Camden County Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, liaison to the Health Department, said. “Whether you’re going to the gym, a restaurant, or some other shared space or gathering, always start by ensuring that the facility is meeting safety guidelines and that staff is properly equipped to keep you safe.”
The reopening marked the end of a shutdown that lasted about five months. Read more here: Gov. Murphy: NJ Gyms, Indoor Amusements Reopen Amid Coronavirus
- Familiarize yourself with NJ Guidance for Health Clubs/Gyms/Fitness Centers;
- Check if the gym is complying with CDC’s COVID-19 safe practice guidelines;
- Check if the staff is receiving daily health screening and wearing proper protective; equipment; and
- Locate the protocol for if there is a possible suspected COVID-19 case.
What you need before you go:
- Wear CDC recommended cloth masks at all times while at the gym;
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizers frequently;
- Bring disinfectant wipes to sanitize equipment before and after use;
- Take your own water bottle and sweat towel;
- Skip the locker room and head home for your after-work out and shower.
Keep your distance while working out:
- Stay 6 to 8 feet away from others while working out, even when wearing a mask; and
- Be mindful of distancing in shared spaces such as check-in areas, locker rooms, free weight spaces, and group fitness studios.
Limit or avoid group classes:
- Check to see if your fitness center provides outdoor or virtual group classes;
- If you do a group exercise class, be sure it limits participants and you are 6 to 12 feet away from each other.
For more information regarding Camden County’s preparations and response to the coronavirus pandemic, visit camdencounty.com, or contact the Camden County Health Department by calling 856-374-6000.
