Preventative measures at the gym during the Coronavirus outbreak
Gyms across the globe are using preventative measures to stop the spread of coronavirus. Exercise at the gym and keeping fit is key to a healthy lifestyle but with coronavirus being spread so rampantly throughout the globe, extra vigilance with hygiene must be followed.
The virus is transmitted when people are in close contact of around 1.8m (6 feet) and predominantly through coughing and sneezing. The droplets land on people and are inhaled.
There is no evidence that Covid-19 is spread through sweat.
In addition, you should never train if you are feeling unwell. You will prolong your recovery and make the illness stronger. In addition, you are likely to infect others at the gym including members, fitness staff and personal trainers.
SWEATING IT OUT DOES NOT WORK
Anti-Bacterial hand wash
Wash your hands regularly and try not to touch your face after using equipment. Alcohol-based sanitisers such as Carex and Dettol are excellent choices to keep in your gym bag.
Gym cleaning
Ask you gym to increase the level of cleaning and hygiene around the gym. Request that the barbells, dumbbells, kettle bells and all cardio equipment is cleaned regularly.
Bring your own alcohol-based wipes to clean mats, seats and handles.
Ask for the air-conditioning to be turned off and open windows and doors (even if it’s cold).
No high-fives
High fives are not a favourite of mine but ensure that high-fives are replaced by the new elbow bumps. Avoid shaking hands.
Mask wearing
If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with suspected Covid-2019.
Otherwise, only wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing. Masks are effective at capturing droplets, which is the main transmission route of Covid-19.
Covid-19 can be transmitted through your eyes. Tiny viral particles known as aerosols can penetrate masks.
Avoid training in the gym
If you are still concerned about going to the gym, go for a bike ride, run or exercise at home. Swimming in a pool is safe as it contains chlorine which kills viruses but you may get infected from the changing rooms if someone has the virus.
Remember, exercise and coronavirus does not mix.
Coronavirus symptons
The virus can cause pneumonia and those that have fallen ill are reported to suffer coughs, fever and breathing difficulties.
Antibiotics will be of no use and there is not a vaccine. The latest reports for a vaccination are 18-24 months away.
Recovery depends on the strength of the immune system. Eating healthy foods full of anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals and ensuring you are getting enough sleep at night is crucial to a strong immune system. Try to avoid stressful situations as this has a detrimental effect on your immune system.
If you have the symptoms, stay indoors, do not go to the gym or work and avoid all contact with other people. Call NHS 111 to inform them. More NHS advice can be found here.
Full travel advice to UK nationals is available here
And spare a thought for your personal trainer. If you do have any illness symptoms, stay home. Your PT and everyone at the gym will be very thankful!