(Submitted photo/Linda Madraga)

By Angie Rolheiser

New Restrictions

Local fitness studios react to additional public health measures

Nov 13, 2020 | 3:50 PM

Additional public health measures were announced by the Saskatchewan Health Authority includes an update for fitness facilities.

All group fitness classes are limited to a maximum of eight participants and are permitted only if those involved can be three metres apart during the activity.

Linda Madraga with SpaFit by Linda in Melfort said the new guidelines will only have a small impact on the gym.

“We are lucky that we have a large enough space in our back area for classroom space so that won’t be a problem,” Madraga said. “Our classes are sometimes up to 15 people so we will have to downsize to the eight.”

Equipment in the gym will see some rotations throughout the week and will have to be three metres apart and the staff will also close off some machines to ensure that everyone gets a good workout.

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Masks will be mandatory in indoor public places in Melfort as well as other communities of 5,000 or more starting on Monday, Nov. 16, which would include the gym.

“Masks were required from the doorway to the gym entrance because it wasn’t mandatory before in that area,” Madraga said.

Masks will be required upon entering the facility, all the way through a workout, and leaving.

“We are trying to stay positive and we are grateful for our loyal clients that are continuing to support us during these times,” Madraga said.

The Renew U Fitness women’s only training studio that was slated to open on Monday in the Wellness Centre in Melfort will see some changes.

The studio will still open its doors as planned but will not be offering in-person group classes.

Owner Britt Meyers told northeastNOW her decision is being made out of caution.

“With the circumstances our province is in and the recent restrictions put in place, I have decided to postpone offering classes out of my space for the time being,” Owner Britt Meyers said. “I think it’s the best move right now and will revisit my plan in the coming weeks.”

Meyers will still have an array of virtual class options; personal training will be available as well as nutrition consultations.

“My clients, the surrounding community and my personal health is always of my greatest importance,” Meyers said. “Whether in person or virtual I want to be able to serve you and help maintain good health because that should be our top priority during these unprecedented times.”

An updated schedule on the virtual class options will be posted on Meyers website.

The mandatory masking mandate will be in place for 28 days and will then be subject to review by Saskatchewan’s chief medical health officer.

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angie.rolheiser@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @Angie_Rolheiser