Tamil Nadu govt SOPs allow gyms to use ACs

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday announced Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for gyms, which are allowed to reopen on Monday. Among the most notable developments, the government has allowed air conditioners set at 24°-30° with the relative humidity in the range of 40-70% at facilities.
Ajit Shetty, owner of Score, hailed this move.
“It is a wise decision. If the temperature is regulated, people won’t be sweating all (over the place) and it will be only beneficial for everyone making use of the gym,” Shetty told TOI.However, he expressed surprise at the state’s decision not to permit those above 50 years old from using gyms.
“Many people above 50 are working out and are extremely fit. I would have understood if the state had said people above the age of 60 are not to use the gym as they are vulnerable ,” he said.
Other key protocols include not allowing pregnant women and children below the age of 15 to make use of the facilities.
The administration must limit the number of people in the gym and members, trainers and other staff must maintain a distance of minimum of 6ft from one another. The equipment too must be placed 6 feet apart.
Members must wear a face shield while working out. Managers have been told to plan activities while keeping a floor area of 4sqm per member.
Gyms are also required to provide adequate disinfectant wipes and disposable paper towels for members and staff to wipe equipment before and after use.
There must be a 15-30 minute gap between each group fitness class to avoid overlap between members arriving and leaving. Gyms have been instructed to offer online fitness classes wherever possible.