How are we dealing with the coronavirus at TrainingSpaces?

It would be irresponsible of me not to talk about COVID-19. With more and more cases popping up all over Toronto, and cities quarantining themselves, ignoring the impact of the virus won’t make it go away. People have asked me how TrainingSpaces is going to operate in the middle of this outbreak so I’ve put together this information for all my members.

I heard a Goodlife Fitness just closed because of Coronavirus. Will TrainingSpaces be next?

First some facts. A Goodlife Fitness closed temporarily because a potential contact with COVID-19 was reported elsewhere in the building. The North York Madison Centre Club thoroughly cleaned and then re-opened the same day.

TrainingSpaces has no intention of changing our hours or operating model. You can continue to work out and schedule your sessions.

Should I stop working out during this outbreak?

If you are healthy, there is no reason for you to discontinue your workout routine.

However, if you are sick, no matter how this illness manifests, you must cancel your session. As this is a shared space, please be considerate of others. We’re all in this together — so please do not come to the gym if you are not at your best. It only takes one person to infect others.

Nothing spreads faster than paranoia in a situation like this, and if you are exercising next to someone who is recovering from a cold, coughing and sneezing, you won’t feel comfortable.

People come to TrainingSpaces for a range of reasons, and some clients may be immunocompromised, have diabetes, lung or heart disease, or any other chronic condition. We need to work together so all of us are comfortable exercising in a shared space. If you feel a sneeze coming on, it’s best to stay home.

How can I protect myself at the gym and make it safe for others?

While transmission of coronavirus occurs much more commonly through respiratory droplets than through contact with contaminated surfaces, you still need to wipe down all the surfaces you exercise on. Sweat cannot transmit the virus but high-contact surfaces, such as barbells, may be more susceptible. Make sure that you wipe down any equipment that you use. You may want to wash your hands more frequently during your workout or wear weightlifting gloves if you are concerned.

This isn’t coronavirus-specific behaviour, it’s just good gym etiquette.

What are the benefits of exercise during this outbreak?

Exercising boosts your immune system and releases stress hormones. If there was ever a time where this was needed, it’s now. This gym is a safe space and a place where you can work through any anxiety, turning it into physical progress.

What are you doing to keep the gym safe?

We are always focused on cleanliness. We will continue to make sure that all equipment is safe and in working order. We will continue to use industrial-grade cleaning products and ensure that soap, anti-bacterial wipes, and gel with high alcohol content are available.

In the meantime, please keep yourself safe and informed as we combat this virus together.