Boston was a week behind the rest of the state when it came to Governor Charlie Baker’s Phase III of Massachusetts’s phased COVID-19 reopening strategy.
In Boston, businesses that were eligible to reopen in Step One of Phase III but subject to industry-specific rules concerning capacity and operations, included movie theaters and outdoor performance venues; museums, cultural and historical sites; fitness centers and health clubs limited to 40 percent occupancy; as well as certain indoor recreational activities with low potential for contact, according to Mayor Martin Walsh.
“Boston is taking this step one week later because of the size of its population, density, and the size of our commercial, hospitality, and other sectors,” said Mayor Walsh.
While Eastie doesn’t have movie theaters many in the neighborhood were excited that Planet Fitness on McClellan Highway has reopened its doors.
Many stuck at home have complained about the so-called “COVID-15” a play on the virus’s name and the 15 lbs many claim they gained during quarantine.
According to Planet Fitnesses Danielle D’Amelio members can return to the Eastie location and get back in shape.
“As an industry leader, the health and safety of Planet Fitness’ members and team members is a top priority,” said D’Amelio. “In preparation for reopening clubs and welcoming members back to the Judgement Free Zone in a safe and responsible way, Planet Fitness has taken several steps to strengthen existing cleanliness policies and procedures, in an effort to protect the health and well-being of members, team members and the local community.”
D’Amelio said some changes include all team members having completed extensive training related to enhanced cleanliness and sanitation policies and procedures
Planet Fitness team members will receive daily temperature checks when they arrive to work each day.
There will be increased thorough cleaning using disinfectant on the EPA list effective against COVID-19, including 20-minute walk arounds by our team to continually clean and sanitize high-touch areas.
Planet Fitness in Eastie has also implemented;
Increased sanitization stations will be available throughout the gym floor and members will continue to be asked to wipe down equipment before and after use
Touchless check-in is available via the free Planet Fitness app. Simply download the app in advance and scan in at the front desk
New signage will be placed throughout the club that highlights sanitization and Social Fitnessing guidelines
Some pieces of cardio equipment will be temporarily marked out of use to enable Social Fitnessing and create additional distance between members
Clubs will be open under 40% capacity; members can contact their home club for details
Masks or face coverings will be required for members at all times, except when partaking in strenuous cardio exercise and positioned at a distance of 14 feet from others Lockers will be limited to allow for safe distancing and all showers will be closed