After months of nationwide closures of gyms and fitness studios, many states are allowing facilities to re-open. While it’s perfect timing with increased stress levels and health concerns stemming from the pandemic, figuring out how to get back in the groove can be tricky. We now face the challenge of creating new routines while mitigating the risk of COVID-19 and other infectious illnesses with a prevention plan and bleach-free disinfectant spray.
Below are some tips that will help with everything from coronavirus and Twindemic prevention to reducing the risk of injuries.
Ease Into It
It’s exciting to go back to the gym—but don’t try to jump back into your pre-COVID routine too quickly. Your body is probably not ready for the same intensity or duration of your previous workouts. Start slow and work your way up to your prior fitness level. Set realistic goals that allow time for your body to adjust. Reset your strength by starting with lighter weights and building gradually. Rebuild endurance with shorter cardio intervals at a reduced intensity.
Prioritize the Stretch
Stretching is more important than ever, especially if you’ve slacked since gyms closed. Develop a stretching routine for before and after exercise to help prevent injuries. Stretching is also an excellent way to tone and elongate your muscles. Consider making flexibility training a staple of your normal routine by taking yoga or Pilates classes to maximize your fitness level while minimizing injury risks.
Warm Up & Cool Down
Warming up and cooling down properly will also help minimize injuries and inflammation. Try brisk walking, jogging or a riding a bicycle for between 10 and 15 minutes to warm up. Cool down by stretching, walking at a relaxed pace or using recovery modalities like massage, Cryotherapy or infrared heat. Disinfect recovery equipment with a powerful athletic gear disinfectant like Clear Gear before and after every use.
Level Up Disinfection Efforts
Disinfection is a priority for preventing the spread of COVID-19, the flu, colds, athlete’s foot, ringworm and staph infections like MRSA. Germs that cause these dangerous infections thrive in gym environments. Start by checking on your gym or fitness studio’s cleaning and disinfection protocols to make sure they’re up to par. Then take matters into your own hands—wipe down equipment and free weights with a bleach-free disinfectant spray like Clear Gear before and after use. Clear Gear contains none of the harsh chemicals in bleach, alcohol or ammonia that corrode exercise equipment and gear. It also keeps equipment free of the toxic fumes that many types of athletic gear disinfectant leave behind. PRO TIP: Spray Clear Gear wipes with our EPA-registered disinfectant and take them with you to the gym for ease and convenience.
5. Keep Your Distance
Maintain a distance of at least six feet between you and other members. Only go to a gym or fitness studio that prevents gymgoers from using equipment that is too close together. If you do classes or group workouts, choose a facility that limits the number of participants for each session. Consider wearing a breathable mask to maximize protection.
6. Wash Your Hands
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after every workout or trip to the restroom. Use soap and water to lather vigorously for 20 seconds or more.
Always consult a physician if you have any concerns about exercising or going to the gym. Click here for more information about how our bleach-free disinfectant spray can protect you from dangerous infectious illnesses.
