I hope this message finds you and your families healthy and safe.

The governor recently announced two key drivers related to the recent uptick in cases as they are related to wellness/fitness/gyms:

1. The increase in positive tests and school/class closures are correlated to youth sports.
2. The wearing of face coverings needs to be extended beyond the current guidelines for our facility.

Based upon the Youth Sports correlation, the governor has put a pause of team sports activities for the 8 week period beginning Monday, November 23 with the scheduled resumption on January 19, the day after the Martin Luther King holiday.   “Team” is defined as a group of more than 4 people jointly engaged in an organized or recreational athletic activity on a court, field, etc.  Permissible activities during this pause include individual and small group (4 or less).  Our coaches are evaluating how they can incorporate these permissible activities during this time period.  They will revert directly with their teams on how to proceed.

Effective this Monday as well – Face covering requirements have now been expanded to be worn at all times during your visit inside the Y facility.    In addition, the 6-foot social distancing rules remain in effect.  Further, Group Exercise and Wellness Center 12-foot exceptions that existed while vigorously exercise NO LONGER EXIST.   Said another way, be it running on a treadmill in the Wellness Center or taking a Spin Class in the gym, you need to have your face covered the entire time.  Outdoor classes do NOT have the same restrictions.

The only exceptions – swimming and showering.  HOWEVER, Staff and Members need to remove the face covering immediately prior to entry to the pool/shower and reengage upon departure.  As face coverings are ineffective when wet, you will need to have a towel readily available to dry your face upon exit of pool or shower.  Said another way, you cannot walk on pool deck or in a locker room outside the shower area without a face covering.

Per his press conference on the topic, he is taking these measures now in an attempt to cease the spread as soon as practical.  He also said in the conference that he is going to do everything he can to keep gyms open.

We ask that you continue to “stay with us” and utilize our facility under the new rules so that we can remain healthy during this holiday season.

I wish you and your families a Healthy, Safe and Happy Thanksgiving holiday.