IHRSA (International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association) detailed its Four-Pronged Framework clubs are using to plan safe reopening protocols while working with local health boards.

Among their recommendations:

  • Increased cleaning
  • Social distancing policies
  • Employee and member training
  • Masks encouraged or required

Many clubs have gone touchless and are encouraging members to use a mobile app to check-in. Some clubs have installed plexiglass barriers and removed, or rearranged, equipment and lobby furniture to comply with distancing policies. Another protocol members can expect is screening when entering a club with questions, temperature and symptom checks.

Many states have requirements that restrict entry to a business if you have a fever. Some clubs are taking extra precautions. Sports Academy & Racquet Club in Logan, UT, one of the first U.S. clubs to reopen, posted an online memo to members and staff stating, “any staff or club member with any symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, fever, chills, or sneezing with nasal discharge should not come to the club. Anyone exhibiting these symptoms will be asked to leave immediately.”

Each reopening plan IHRSA looked at outlined intense cleaning protocols and ensured adequate staffing and supplies to execute the efforts. Plans include frequently cleaning equipment and surfaces, assigning staff zones of the club to clean and enforce distancing guidelines, or setting exercise time-blocks between which the club is emptied, cleaned, and ventilated.

To help members follow social distancing protocols, clubs are abiding by national and regional authorities.

  • Limiting the number of people who can be in the facility;
  • Increasing signage or floor markers to indicate one-ways or spacing;
  • Adding barriers between, rearranging, or removing equipment; and
  • Restricting class sizes.

Finally, for an added layer of protection and per CDC recommendations, many clubs encourage employees and members to wear a mask or face covering to help against the spread of the coronavirus or any other types of virus.

Increased signage will remind members of the latest protocols to wash their hands frequently and to sanitize equipment before and after use.