How Gym Customers and Workers Can Protect Themselves From Evolving Health Risks

Workout facilities, including gymnasiums, fitness centers, and exercise studios, are essential for supporting overall well-being and physical health, but gym members and employees must take precautions to protect against ongoing risks like COVID.

Given the frequent use of shared equipment, the high number of customers, and the potentially humid atmosphere, gyms require a strict disinfection process and proper ventilation to limit the spread of illness among those exercising.

Defending Against Health Risks When Exercising

Although credible health resources have confirmed that COVID-19 is not spread through sweat, there are many tough questions about how to safely use a gym or similar exercise facility, given ongoing health risks:

  • What steps can workers and customers take to minimize the risk of disease transmission?

  • What health and safety measures will address new virus variants?

  • How can you safely navigate high-traffic areas or enclosed spaces like a cycling or yoga studio?

With these questions in mind, AIHA has created this “Healthier Workplaces and Schools eBook” to offer practical advice for gym members and workers or trainers to reduce the risk of transmitting illnesses like COVID-19. The guidance borrows from the latest advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and expert advice from leading health, government, and athletic organizations.

These guidelines share actionable steps to protect gym and workout facility visitors, including information on the following areas:

What gym customers can do to minimize the spread of illness:

  • Personal hygiene best practices and how often to wash your hands when using shared equipment

  • Strategies to limit your personal contact when exercising

  • What to do if you need to cough or sneeze at a gym or workout facility

What gym owners and employees can do to reduce risk to themself and customers:

  • Ventilation procedures for gyms and exercise facilities

  • Advanced disinfection protocols for shared gym equipment, including weights, exercise machines, and medicine balls

  • Recommended signage for shared facilities like restrooms, showers, and locker rooms

  • Personal protective equipment considerations for gym employees and customers

Download our “Healthier Workplaces and Schools eBook” today to learn how to exercise safely.