Challenges Abound as Local Gyms Reopen
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WHEELING -- The challenges of operating a public gym or YMCA are greater than ever as the COVID-19 pandemic hangs around the Ohio Valley.
Adam Shinsky, executive director of the Chambers YMCA in the Elm Grove section of Wheeling, said his staff has been taking extra precautions as the facility is offering its summer day camp and numerous, but not all, of its various programs. It is clear to members entering the facility what they need to do to be able to use the gym, Shinsky noted.
"It is a little complex but we have signs about social distancing and wearing masks everywhere," Shinsky said.
There are extra sanitizer stations and Clorox wipes throughout the facility. The machines are continually being sanitized. However, there are no indoor fitness classes at this time.
"There is a mandatory wipe down before and after each use. Extra staff are cleaning the bathrooms, machines … temperatures are taken at the front desk," Shinsky said.
All staff members dealing with the public, especially the summer campers, are wearing masks.
Only outdoor fitness routines are being offered at the Y. Shinsky said they have football and cheering camps scheduled in July and August, all of which will be held outdoors at the Y.
"We won't be bringing back any of the indoor youth programs -- such as basketball -- until we look at what the schools do," Shinsky said.
Meanwhile, the Howard Long Wellness Center of Wheeling Hospital, reopened with several restrictions in place to comply with Gov. Jim Justice's guidelines.
The facility has a heavy concentration of senior citizens members and restrictions are monitored closely. Members are screened with temperature checks when they enter the facility and social distancing is in effect at all times. All exercise equipment and chairs have been placed at least 8 feet apart (6 feet is required) throughout the center, including on the track, and may not be moved.
Members are required to wipe down all contact points of every piece of exercise equipment they use before and after each use. All staff and members are required to wear face coverings to the greatest extent possible.
Group exercise classes are limited and reduced to 40% capacity, with no shared equipment. No pool, Jacuzzi, lockers, dry saunas or showers can be used. Locker rooms can be used for coats, restrooms and sinks only. Members are urged to arrive dressed appropriated and ready to work out.
There is no Junior Wellness Center or child care offered at this time. Water fountains are off limits; however bottle fill stations can be used. Members are not permitted to bring guests to the center at this time.