Fitness centers in Utah are cautious to reopen as COVID-19 restrictions loosen

SALT LAKE CITY – Fitness centers in Utah are being extremely cautious to reopen so they do not contribute to the spread of COVID-19.

Gyms and fitness centers will be allowed to reopen on Friday with some restrictions still in place. Dave Morrocco, who owns several Orangetheory fitness centers, believes they will not be ready to start holding classes again until the end of May.

“We want to make sure we have the right [personal protective gear] in place. We’re going to have some screen guards in place at the counter. We’re going to have safety decals on the floor to make sure we ensure proper social distancing…We’re going to be doing temperature scanning of every guest who comes into the studio,” Morrocco said.

He said while some customers are eager to get back in and work out, others are worried about their health and safety.

Even though they have always been known as a clean facility, Morrocco says they are also talking with medical advisors from Orangetheory’s parent company.

“They’re very actively involved in the selection of supplies and disinfectants and safety protocols and the equipment that the employees need to have. In many cases, [our cleanliness standards] are going to be above and beyond what’s required at the state and local level,” Morrocco said.

Morrocco said they will also be waiting for Salt Lake County’s directives on fitness centers.

Regardless of when fitness centers in Utah reopen, Morrocco wants everyone to feel safe so they will feel comfortable coming in.

“We really feel like our operation is going to be cleaner than any other place that people visit, including grocery stores and pharmacies,” Morrocco said.

In the meantime, Morrocco has been keeping in touch with customers and reminding them of the benefits of exercise.

“Exercise is such a critical factor for helping people build their immune systems,” Morrocco said.