GREENFIELD, Wis. — New procedures have been established as YMCA locations prepare to reopen across southeastern Wisconsin. The new measures planned begin before members even enter the building. Members are asked to wear a mask before and after their workouts. Additionally, anyone looking to work out is asked to arrive in their gym clothes. While a restroom will be available, all locker rooms will be closed.
At the YMCA of Greater Waukesha County, disinfecting is underway and new ‘Equipment Unavailable’ signs are going up to promote social distancing.
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“With all of our equipment we are making sure to block off every other piece,” said Emily Salas, marketing director at the YMCA of Greater Waukesha County.
Most YMCAs across the area including the Glacial Community YMCA plan to open Wednesday. The Greenfield and Wauwatosa YMCA locations plan to reopen on Friday.
“We know some people are going to come back with their gym bags just ready to do what they did and it will be different,” said Jon Lange, CEO of Glacial Community YMCA.
The YMCA at Pabst Farms requires pre-registration for all classes and equipment. In Waukesha and Milwaukee Counties the YMCA only requires reservation for exercise classes. There are also a limited number of spots available in places like the cycling studio. Some of the bikes have had their seats removed so people are spaced out. There are also colorful dots on the floors in places like the studios and gyms to tell people where to stand for their classes.
“Within all of our group exercise studios we will make sure to have these designated dots so people know where they can set up their equipment and start class,” said Salas.
Salas also says YMCA workers may tell members a room is too full and they will be asked to use equipment elsewhere in the building.
“We’re just really asking members to be patient with each other and mindful of proper social distancing,” said Salas.
Keep in mind that hours at local YMCA locations have changed. For information on hours at the YMCA of Waukesha County, click here for more information. For information on adjusted hours at the Clacial Community YMCA, click here.