What will the gym be like when you go back? Your Arizona reopening questions answered

Many gyms and fitness centers across the state have the green light to reopen, as long as they agree to adhere to the Arizona Department of Health and Safety's operating guidelines.

On Aug. 10, ADHS announced that businesses in the state could begin a phased reopening, depending on the level of COVID-19 transmission in their county and the safety precautions they will take. 

As of Aug. 27, community spread of the coronavirus was officially changed to "moderate" in Apache, Cochise, Coconino, La Paz, Maricopa, Navajo, Pima and Yavapai Counties, allowing gyms and fitness centers there to reopen. Gym owners just need to submit attestation forms agreeing to comply with the state's guidance.

Here's what to expect when your gym or fitness center reopens.

Why were some Phoenix gyms allowed to reopen early?

Maricopa County was considered to have "substantial" coronavirus spread. At that benchmark, according to ADHS guidelines, gyms and fitness centers are not allowed to reopen.

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However, some fitness centers and studios applied to reopen early, and 31 applications were approved Aug. 19. Among them are Sweatshop on Central, Club Pilates, Eos Fitness and Village Health Clubs & Spas.

These businesses' COVID-19 precautions, which were listed in their applications, should have surpassed the state's guidelines.

Many other gyms and other businesses saw their requests denied.

What changes can I expect at my gym?

According to ADHS requirements for indoor gyms and fitness clubs, safety measures gyms must implement include:

• Proper ventilation, including circulating in outdoor air as much as possible.
• Reservations for fitness classes.
• Equipment sanitized after each use.
• Symptom screenings for all guests.
• Occupancy limitations of 25%-50%, depending on community spread.
• Enforced physical distancing.
• Masks required for those over 2 years old.
• Signs advising protective measures, such as handwashing.
• Hand sanitizer, soap and disinfecting wipes provided.
• Require employees to stay home when sick.

Is it safe to work out at an indoor gym?

Working out at an indoor gym or fitness center is a high-risk activity during the coronavirus pandemic, according to ADHS. It's as risky as going to a "large" concert or eating at a buffet, the state's assessment says.

ADHS Director Dr. Cara Christ in a court declaration stated that indoor gyms and fitness centers are a "uniquely dangerous environment for the spread of COVID-19."

Before going back to your gym, consider whether you are high-risk, can maintain social distancing there, have experienced symptoms of illness recently or have come into contact with an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Playing tennis, golfing and going for a walk, run, hike or bike by yourself or with your close contacts are less risky, according to the state.

Do I have to wear a mask while working out?

Yes. You have to wear a mask while working out indoors. This applies to anyone who is over 2 years old, according to ADHS' requirements for indoor gyms and fitness clubs.

You might be worried that a mask would make it difficult to breathe while exerting effort. Here's what ADHS says about that:

"In accordance with CDC guidelines, individuals who are engaged in high-intensity activities, like running, may not be able to wear a mask if it causes difficulty breathing. If unable to wear a mask, these individuals should not participate in activities conducted at indoor gyms and fitness centers."

Will all the amenities at my club be available?

Pools, saunas and steam rooms can be open with some limitations.

"Privately owned pools in public areas ... may continue to be open provided that signage is included at all entrances to the pool reminding people to maintain physical distance and that groups larger than 10 should not congregate," Ducey's June 29 executive order reads.

There is no guidance from ADHS that specifies whether cafes and food services can open at fitness clubs.

Though not required, ADHS recommends that fitness centers consider closing some amenities to ensure social distancing and preventing members from sharing germs.  These amenities include:

• Locker rooms.
• Water fountains.
• Towel service.

Could my gym be shut down again?

ADHS' attestation form seems to leave room for the agency to take action if a business is not operating in accordance with guidelines.

The form states:

"ADHS or a local governmental jurisdiction shall have authority to take immediate action against any business that operates without submitting this attestation to ADHS or posting it in an easily visible public place on the entity's premises or operates in violation of applicable ADHS guidelines."

If a community shows "substantial" spread for two weeks, it will move up into the "substantial" benchmark. At that time, ADHS will announce what that means for businesses.

Reach the reporter at kimi.robinson@gannett.com or at 602-444-4968. Follow her on Twitter @kimirobin and Instagram @ReporterKiMi.

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