Govt issues dos and don’ts for reopening of gyms from tomorrow

NEW DELHI: Yoga institutes and gymnasiums in Covid-19 containment zones shall remain closed for public while others can reopen from August 5, the health ministry said in its guidelines and protocols to prevent the spread of infection in such places.
Those above the age of 65 years, people with co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 have been advised not to use gymnasiums or yoga institutes in closed spaces.
The ministry has specified that visitors in such places should maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet as far as feasible. “Use of face covers/masks is mandatory at all times within the premises. However, during yoga exercise or exercising in gymnasiums, as far as possible only a visor may be used. Use of mask (in particular N-95 masks) during exercise may cause difficulty in breathing,” it said.
The guidelines also directed housekeeping staff to be informed and trained about norms for waste management and disposal. “All employees who are at higher risk, like older employees and employees who have underlying medical conditions, should take extra precautions. They should preferably not be exposed to any frontline work requiring direct contact with clients,” it added. The norms suggested tailoring sessions to include only exercises that did not require physical contact between the trainer and clients, including set-up and use of equipment.