Gyms get workout from fighting virus

By TAYLOR BROWN

tbrown@yourmvi.com

According to Peggy Herforth, the best defense against COVID-19 is a strong immune system.

Herforth is the wellness director for the Mon Valley YMCA in Carroll Township, which closed March 17 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

When the doors reopened June 10, new safety protocols were in place. The facility opened back up gradually, in phases.

The first phase began when Washington County went “yellow” and the facility reopened childcare programs May 20.

When Washington County entered the “green” phase, the facility reopened additional areas including the Wellness Center, ETA Room and gymnasium for a limited fitness class schedule and walking with reduced hours of operation and capacity limitations.

Last week, the Mon Valley YMCA entered into phase 3 of its reopening plan, announcing the opening of the indoor pool and resumption of spin classes. 

Through a donation from EQT, hand-washing stations were installed at two summer camps and the Wellness Center, along with hand-sanitizing stations at the playground, pavilion and front entrance.

Herforth said changes have been implemented to follow CDC and state guidelines with membership safety as the top priority. 

Of the measures implemented, including the addition of hand sanitizer and cleaning stations as well as reduced capacity and distance between equipment, the most important is health screening and temperature check upon entry. 

Currently, the facility is open to members only and those looking to exercise must have their temperatures taken before hitting the gym.

Members with a temperature above 100.4 degrees cannot enter the facility for 14 days. 

Members are also required to check in and out of the facility to ensure it is not over capacity. 

With a new order passed down from the state last week requiring masks in all public spaces — and outside when social distancing cannot be observed — members must carry masks with them throughout their workouts.

“Masks can be removed when actively working out, but while walking from machine to machine or cleaning, they are required,” Herforth said. “You will still have to wear your mask, as you already have, when walking throughout the building as well.”

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