This blog was updated on Sept. 10, 2020.

In this time of COVID-19, so many of our once-regular activities have become question marks.

But in July, after months of staying at home, gym regulars rejoiced when Edward-Elmhurst Health & Fitness officially opened its doors again.

While it feels good to get back into a workout routine, it’s also different because of coronavirus.

As long as COVID-19 is a health threat, there will be measures in place to keep you safe in the gym.

Our Fitness Center follows these COVID-19 guidelines:

• Face covering is required. Masks must be worn throughout the facility. They can be removed during heavy exertion of exercise, but must be immediately put on when finished.
• Must maintain 6 feet of social distance
• Capacity at both sites is limited to 50%
• Temperature checks and COVID-19 screening at entrances
• Members only — no guests
• Increased sanitization and cleaning per CDC/IDPH guidelines
• Members must disinfect equipment before and after using
• Members are encouraged to come dressed to workout
• Touchless check-in at service desks
• HVAC system has been adjusted for best practices

Our pools have reopened for lap swimming and aqua fitness classes. We aren’t taking reservations for lap swimming — first come is first served.

Our aerobics and spin classes have modified schedules with a smaller number of people per class. Our basketball court is open for solo play only, and racquetball and pickleball are singles play only.

There are still areas of the Fitness Center that are closed, including childcare areas, sauna/steam room/whirlpools, lounges, water fountains and vending machines.

It is possible to get a safe workout at the gym during COVID-19. Following the protocols will help keep everyone safe.

For updates on our planning and response efforts as we work to stop the spread of COVID-19, please check EEHealth.org/coronavirus.

The information in this article may change at any time due to the changing landscape of this pandemic. Read the latest on COVID-19.