The Government of India, on the 3rd of August, released a set of guidelines for all yoga institutes and gymnasiums, which are set to open under the Unlock 3.0.
According to the released guidelines, only gyms and yoga institutes outside of containment zones are allowed to open.
Gyms and yoga centres in containment zones should remain closed and those outside such zones would follow the guidelines on preventive measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.
The document read, “Spas, sauna, steam bath and swimming pools (wherever applicable) shall remain closed.”
Only asymptomatic people should allow to enter, social distancing should be maintained and use of Aarogya Setu mobile application should be followed.
In addition, owners and organisers at gyms were asked to place equipments in a proper way following social distancing. The document read, “Where available, utilise any outdoor space by relocating equipment outside. Create specific pathways for entering and exiting exercise areas within closed spaces using floor or wall markings.”
Persons above 65 years of age, persons with comorbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 years are advised not to use gyms in closed spaces.
For gyms and yoga centres, all the entry points should have hand hygiene (sanitiser dispenser) and thermal screening provisions.
The guidelines said, “All members, visitors and staff may consider using Aarogya Setu application for risk identification at all times inside the yoga institute/ gymnasiums.”
It also stated that prior to exercising in gymnasiums using equipment for cardio, strength training, etc. middle finger be sanitised with alcohol swab and oxygen saturation be checked using pulse oximeter. Those having oxygen saturation below 95% should not be allowed to exercise.
The guidelines also mentioned, “In yoga institutes, shoes/footwear are to be preferably taken off outside the premises where yoga exercises are done. If needed they should be kept in separate slots for each individual/family by the persons themselves.”
Details of check-in and checkout times of members and visitors must be recorded along with their name, address and phone number.
The Health Ministry regarding the air conditioned gyms said, “For air-conditioning/ventilation, the guidelines of CPWD shall be followed which emphasizes that the temperature setting of all air conditioning devices should be in the range of 24-30 degrees Celsius, relative humidity should be in the range of 40- 70%, intake of fresh air should be as much as possible and cross ventilation should be adequate.”
In addition, the set of guidelines allowed the use of lockers and said, “Lockers will remain in use, as long as social distancing is maintained. Ensure dustbins and trash cans are covered at all times.” In addition it said, “Remove mask and wear visor as far as feasible while exercising.”
This is the first time after the 24th March lockdown, the Union Government allowed gyms and yoga centres to reopen.
Stay tuned for further updates.
