Texas gyms allowed to reopen with new social distancing rules
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- For weeks, gyms in Texas have been closed in ordinance with the governors order aimed at controlling the spread of the coronavirus.
As of today, that order is lifted. However, gym operations will be a lot different.
Gyms and fitness centers will have to reduce capacity to 25 percent.
Those working out will have to wear gloves, and numerous sanitizing stations will be in place.
Businesses may also request that masks or face coverings be worn.
At Powerhouse Gym in Houston, the floor is lined with red tape markers, which show the social distancing requirements of six feet between equipment.
"We can't have anyone closer than six feet, and we can't spot anyone lifting weights because that's too close," said owner Luis Torres.
The YMCA hasn't announced when its fitness centers will reopen, although other services have resumed.
Gyms like 24-Hour Fitness in north Texas will reopen today, but Houston locations will remain closed for another week.
The company released the following statement on Sunday:
"Our first five clubs reopen in Dallas (on Monday) and Houston clubs will be identified for reopening in the next week."
The statement continued reading in part, "We are taking precautious, phased approach to club reopenings. Since 24 Hour Fitness made the difficult decision to close all our clubs nationwide on March 16, we have been carefully planning for the eventual re-opening of some of our clubs as state and local governments and public health agencies indicate it is safe to do so. As we prepare for that moment, we are reimagining the club experience which begins before club members leave their homes."
Locker rooms and showers will remain off-limits, while gym restrooms will be accessible.
