What about masks? Courthouse says masks are “encouraged” but not required, unless remaining 6-feet apart is impossible.
Similar steps are being taken at the Y. In a reopening announcement emailed to members of one Los Angeles branch on Friday, the Y noted that staff will be wearing masks and gloves, water fountains are closed, gym patrons will have temperatures taken via remote scanner upon entry, hands are to be sanitized upon entry and exit, showers and saunas are closed, equipment has been spaced apart, and stringent disinfecting procedures will be in place.
“We are seeing Ys reopen facilities in phases similar to those recommended by federal and state authorities,” O’Malley noted. “A fitness facility may partially reopen with cardio and weight machines spread out or marked as not for use, to allow physical distancing. But group fitness classes may not be available yet, or in some cases they are hosting group classes outside.”
Expect to sign some forms, too. Fitness clubs, like many other businesses, may start asking members to absolve them in advance of any COVID-related health issues associated with a workout.
Many Y branches are asking patrons to sign a waiver, as is Courthouse Club Fitness.
The Courthouse waiver reads as follows: “I acknowledge the contagious nature of communicable diseases, including coronavirus, and voluntarily assume the risk that I may be exposed to or infected by viral, bacterial and other communicable diseases by utilizing the Services. I understand that despite the precautions I take and those taken by the Courthouse, a risk of becoming exposed to or infected by viral, bacterial and other communicable diseases may result from the actions, omissions, or negligence of myself and others, including, but not limited to, Courthouse Parties, Trainers, other members and program participants.”
More information
There’s more on COVID-19 prevention at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.