Sars-CoV-2 is just one of the many strains of Coronavirus. It was first detected in December of 2019 in China, and it has spread to many other countries. The virus spreads person-to-person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or exhales, and these respiratory droplets reach the ground or other surfaces; then another person touches the contaminated surface and eventually touches his/her mouth, nose, eyes, or face. There are researches that prove that droplets of bodily fluids from a cough or a sneeze can travel several feet and be up in the air for about 10 minutes. Some of the ways to protect oneself from the COVID-19 is to wear masks, wash hands often, avoid travel when possible, and to boost one’s immune system. Aside from eating healthy food, and downing more Vitamin Cs, exercising can also help. Some countries have eased social distancing or establishment closure orders, and have opened gyms or athletic clubs again. Gyms will certainly not be as crowded as before now, and even when this pandemic is considered as “totally” gone. Nevertheless, for those who want to get back to their usual gym routine again, here are 5 things you should consider when you go back to the gym. Interior with several modern fitness machines in gym

1. Schedule your visit

When gyms become (fully) operational again, make sure to schedule your visit. Some gyms have implemented a scheduling system to limit the number of people visiting at a time. Having a few people using the equipment per period will give more time for the staff to clean and sanitize the things used. If your gym does not have any set-up schedule, make your own. Maintaining a schedule will help build a bit of normalcy, which will also be beneficial to your mental health.

2. Bring/wear masks and bring alcohol/sanitizers

As suggested by the WHO, the wearing of masks should be partnered with frequent hand-cleaning (soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub). It is not convenient to exercise while wearing a mask, but do make sure to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. You must bring a disinfectant with you. Man washing hands with soap under the fauset in the modern bathroom The NIH found that the Sars-CoV-2 virus can last up to 2-3 days on plastic and stainless-steel surfaces. Clean your hands and wipe the handles of the machines you would be using. You disinfect the machine by using 62-71% alcohol. Do this before and after using any equipment.

3. Bring extra towels

Before or after this pandemic, one should bring or use his/her towel. Some gyms do offer towels for their patrons, if so, good. For those that don’t have such offers, bring an extra towel or two. One is for wiping sweat while exercising; another would be used to cover or serve as a mat when you use the equipment. This will also limit your direct contact with the machine.

4. Be mindful of others

Keep your distance. Everyone is still trying to get used to the new normal, just like you. Maintain a distance of six feet. The equipment is still being used? Try another machine first; wait at a safe distance that is about two arms’ length. A girl on the bench and weights

5. Be informed/ Ask questions

Before going back to the gym, check your email for any news about your gym’s schedule. They might and should have sent you updates on how they keep the studio and the equipment clean. If you didn’t receive any, email them and ask about it. Asking will help you schedule your gym visits as well as be updated with other precautionary measures you should observe.