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Gyms getting ready to reopen as Gov. Ducey lifts closure order
Gyms and polls have been closed since late March as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. FOX 10's Bailey Miller reports.
PHOENIX - For some gyms across the Valley, Wednesday was reopening day.
Gyms, along with other businesses deemed non-essential, were not allowed to reopen due to the stay-at-home order issued by Gov. Doug Ducey.
On Tuesday, Gov. Ducey said gyms and pools will be allowed to reopen on May 13.
Some gyms excited for reopening, but some are waiting longer to reopen
Some gym owners and employees are thrilled to get back to work.
"We are elated. We are so excited. A giant weight lifted of our back for all the employees to get back to work," said Tim Hatten, CEO of Mountainside Fitness.
Mountainside Fitness, however, is waiting longer to reopen, in order to make sure they can follow every guideline.
"That is a choice to make sure we have everything in place for everyone’s safety," said Hatten.
Lessons for managers
On Wednesday, managers are undergoing important lessons and learning guidelines for the new normal, such as how often to sanitize and how to help their clients stay safe.
"We are talking to them about healthy behavior and taking temperature, washing hands, cleanliness, about wiping down equipment," said Hatten.
Social Distancing measures
Mountainside Fitness will allow for social distancing by unplugging every other cardio machine. They are also decreasing the number of people allowed in their group classes, and will be sanitizing every hour.
The goal is to come back safely, in an effort to assure their clients who may be nervous to come back.
"We understand the environment. We are with you as a partner. For those who are nervous, try and see how you feel. Maybe don’t rush back in walk back in, as a fitness term, you could say," said Hatten.
Mountainside Fitness says they will start training the rest of their employees on Thursday, and the gym will reopen at 4:30 a.m. on Monday, May 18.
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COVID-19 symptoms
Symptoms for coronavirus COVID-19 include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. These, of course, are similar to the common cold and flu.
Expect a common cold to start out with a sore or scratchy throat, cough, runny and/or stuffy nose. Flu symptoms are more intense and usually come on suddenly, and can include a high fever.
Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear more slowly. They usually include fever, a dry cough and noticeable shortness of breath, according to the World Health Organization. A minority of cases develop pneumonia, and the disease is especially worrisome for the elderly and those with other medical problems such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes or heart conditions.
RELATED: Is it the flu, a cold or COVID-19? Different viruses present similar symptoms
Right now there's one big difference between flu and coronavirus: A vaccine exists to help prevent the flu and it's not too late to get it. It won't protect you from catching the coronavirus, but may put you in a better position to fight it.
To protect yourself, wash your hands well and often, keep them away from your face, and avoid crowds and standing close to people.
And if you do find yourself showing any of these flu or coronavirus symptoms - don't go straight to your doctor's office. That just risks making more people sick, officials urge. Call ahead, and ask if you need to be seen and where.
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Why social distancing can save lives amid COVID-19 pandemic
Social distancing is not only about preventing the illness itself, but rather, slowing the rate at which people get sick.
In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Additional resources
Coronavirus (COVID-19) - How it spreads, symptoms, prevention, treatment, FAQ
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus
https://espanol.cdc.gov/enes/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html (In Spanish/En Español)
Arizona COVID-19 Response - Public resources, FAQ, webinars
https://www.azdhs.gov/coronavirus
https://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/infectious-disease-epidemiology/es/covid-19/index.php#novel-coronavirus-home (In Spanish/En Español)
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