Take Up New Habits When Visiting Gyms

 Gyms and fitness centers are reopening, much to the glee of gym goers across Hungtington. But even though these facilities will operate at 33 percent capacity, workout enthusiasts are urged to practice safety measures to protect against the coronavirus.

Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care’s Christina Belitsky, an Advanced Practitioner Lead, says gym goers should implement new habits into their workout routines.

“Exercise does wonders for our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing,” Ms. Belitsky said. “But just like our form must be right with every exercise we do, our steps toward safety must be mindful each time we visit the gym.”

Strategies for protecting against COVID-19 at the gym are simple, yet essential.

“Wipe down your machine before you use it and be sure it is fully air dried before touching it, wipe the machine down again after use,” Ms. Belitsky said. “Be sure to wash your hands regularly and do not touch your face.”

And, she said, “if you usually bring your personal towel to the gym – don’t. You will only rest it on a piece of equipment and then use it to wipe your face or hands and ultimately could spread infection. Instead use disposable paper towels.”  

Ms. Belitsky recommends these guidelines.

Ask the gym about its coronavirus-prevention policies, including equipment cleaning, whether clients are screened before entrance and ventilation protocols. 

Maintain social distance.

Wear a mask as much as possible. “Do what you can,” Ms. Belitsky said. “This is a new practice, but wearing the mask is paramount to not only your safety, but other gym-goers’ safety.”

Exercise outdoors if possible.

Bring anti-microbial wipes for wiping down high-touch surfaces such as exercise equipment.

Change and shower at home rather than at the locker room to avoid unnecessary exposure.

As gyms reopen, testing for COVID-19 in a Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care location remains straightforward. Patients are encouraged to schedule a Virtual Visit for evaluation and then arrange for testing at a nearby Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care center, if warranted. Patients can also visit Gohealthuc.com/nyc to book an in-person visit to any Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care center through the convenient Save a Spot scheduling system, or just walk into any Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care for an evaluation to determine if a COVID-19 test is clinically appropriate. 

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