Gym operators in Pune draw up SOPs ahead of reopening

PUNE: Gymnasia across the city are dusting off and greasing their equipment in anticipation of reopening their doors to customers this weekend.
The state government has allowed gyms and fitness centres to reopen — with some restrictions — from October 25. In the absence of any official guidelines till Friday, gym operators said they have drawn up their own Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The state public health department will issue the official SOPs, but until then the gyms will fall back on their SOPs based on the guidelines issued by the Union ministry of health and family welfare.These include restricting the number of members working out, staggering workouts on alternative days and enforcing social distancing and safety guidelines within the gym.
“Apart from restricting the use of swimming pools and group activities, the government has not issued any guidelines yet, but apart from that we have not received any guidelines. Unlike earlier, members will now be able to visit the gym only in fixed one-hour slots. Equipment will be placed around four to six feet apart, and the gym will be disinfected regularly. Members too will be advised to disinfect the equipment after use. The trainers will work in shifts,” Nilesh Kale, president of the Pune Fitness Club Association, said.
Sangram Chougule, who operates a gym, said they have staggered members’ workout schedules. “Members with surnames starting A-M will be permitted to workout on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, while those whose surnames start with N-Z can work out on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. We have restricted gym timings, number of people allowed, buddy workouts, showers and steam rooms to ensure everyone’s safety,” will be out of bounds for patrons and no one will be allowed to loiter around in the locker room,” Chougule said.
Operators said a set of rules have been drafted specifically aimed at members. “They are required to carry their own drinking water, sanitizer, gloves, napkins, shoes and yoga mat. Their temperature will be taken at the entrance. Staff will have to use masks, while the members must wear face shields while working out,” Chougule said.
Gyms are likely to remain shut on Sunday — Dasara — as operators are likely to perform puja. “We will keep the gym open for enquiries only. We have planned a grand celebration for the opening of my gym and will distribute sweets to all our neighbouring establishments,” explained Kale.