In May, the New York Times released an article reviewing the types of business that may or may not be “super-spreaders.” As we all look to re-enter the world outside our front doors, it is understandable that we will be looking to limit our exposure to spaces that could put us at risk. So this idea of super-spreaders is one we should all be looking into.
In the article, they provided a graph of businesses (shown below) represented as large and small bubbles. The size of the bubbles indicates the risk of passing or contracting the virus. On the left side of the graph was the amount of time people typically spend at each location. The lower part of the graph gave us a sense of how many times a single person would visit these businesses.
Image source: The New York Times
The highlighted area of the graph shown here gives us an idea of the risk of gyms. Their analysis of the gyms as super-spreaders says that although visitors have more space, they tend to linger. Based on the graph, they determined that the majority of people are spending 40 minutes or more at the gym.
This brings us to why the Free Form Fitness model actually works in favour of these metrics.
We are small, but we will be capping patrons in the gym at one time
As we open we will only allow a maximum of 3 clients and 3 trainers in the gym at one time. Our larger facilities – Albert st. and Kanata – can handle more, so you may see an additional trainer and client in those locations.
Sessions will also be by appointment only. This means that clients can only be in the gym for their scheduled appointment. Unfortunately, clients will not be able to stay after their session to do cardio or come in on their own time.
For your warm-up, we will be implementing new outdoor warm-up areas. To help you warm-up for your session, we will be creating warm-ups on our signs outside – you know the ones with the motivating – and sometimes silly – messages? Please also dress accordingly for these outdoor warm-ups.
Enhanced Cleaning Standards
Keeping our facilities clean has always been a priority. In response to the pandemic, we will be stepping up our cleaning game. Hand sanitizer will be available for you to use before, during, and after your sessions. Equipment will be wiped down after every use using our hospital-grade cleaner.
Trainers are being asked to do thorough cleanings on breaks, before and after clients, and before they leave the gym. This will ensure that the gyms are staying as clean as possible. We also encourage you to bring disinfectant wipes to help us clean the spaces used by clients.
With that said, our showers will be off-limits for the time being. We also will not be offering our usual towel service, so as to limit the spread of germs. Please bring your own towel, and be prepared to shower at home after your session.
Masks & Gloves in the gym
Although not required by the government, we ask you to wear a mask in the gym. All of our trainers will be wearing masks during sessions to protect themselves. Should you forget your own mask, we will be selling masks for $3.
As we mentioned in a previous article, gloves are not mandatory. Ottawa Public Health has said that washing hands regularly is more effective than gloves at preventing the spread of germs. If you feel safer wearing gloves, then we encourage you to take any precautions that put your mind at ease.
Lastly, if you think that you are sick, please do not come to the gym. Our 24-hour cancellation policy will not be in effect for the time being. If you suspect that someone you came in contact with was sick, please avoid the gym until you can confirm you are not sick. If you exhibit any of the symptoms – dry cough and fever – please do not come to the gym. The best way we can ensure we are not super-spreaders is to be diligent about this.
When you return to the gym you’ll also notice new signage to remind clients of the new rules in the gym. Please refer to these signs if you are ever unsure about protocols we have put in place. Don’t forget your mask, and please remember to wash your hands regularly.
We look forward to seeing you all again.
Author: Riley Pearce
Director of Social Media
riley.pearce.fff@gmail.com
