RE-INVENTING THE GYM EXPERIENCE

A look at factors that are shaping the new gym experience amid a pandemic

- NISHA SHUKLA

Few months back, gyms and fitness centers were unlocked across the country, bringing the much-needed respite to fitness freaks, who have been working out from the confines of their home.

Right from converting bedrooms to fitness studios to signing up for online classes, the COVID-induced lockdown has carved a new norm for fitness and wellness industry, which may not have happened in a non-COVID scenario. Even as they have reopened with social distancing norms post-lockdown, the dynamics have certainly changed the workout experience, which is now safety and hygiene-driven.

While fitness enthusiasts are gradually returning back to their normal exercise routines, many are still evaluating how risky it would be to hit the gym amid a pandemic. Though, it may seem ideal to wear a mask when exercising in the public area. However in the existing situation, it may prove to be challenge as it will act as a barrier and may lead a person to have a hard time to catch breath. Vigorous exercise may even cause cough or splutter which can contaminate the environment. Besides, people are likely to sweat more in gym, which means they will often touch their face risking themselves as well as others.

Besides, there have been enough evidences that COVID-19 is air borne and is more likely to spread indoors. According to health experts, one of the crucial concerns in context to COVID-19 is how easily it can spread through the air via droplets, especially in confined spaces. A bunch of South Korean researchers warned about rigorous workout in confined spaces like fitness studios. They highlighted that the moist, warm air combined with turbulent air flow from exercising may create an environment in which droplets can spread readily.

However, experts have also pointed out that by adhering to social distancing norms, outdoor workouts, tweaking interiors among others measures can help in ensuring a safe gym experience.