The coronavirus is upending the way gyms, fitness instructors, and personal trainers like you manage their business. Person-to-person contact and being in close proximity to other people is essential to your livelihood.
It’s important to take steps to protect your fitness business to protect yourself, your customers, and your financial stability. We’ve been following closely, and have some suggested best practices to respond to the coronavirus.
Pay close attention to government guidelines
Be aware of what federal and local authorities are suggesting and follow their guidelines. This is a fast-moving crisis that varies by community. Don’t put yourself and others at risk by disregarding social distancing and shelter-in-place orders at your fitness business and classes.
Shift from IRL to online classes
If you hold group classes, consider streaming them live via Facebook Live, Instagram Live, Zoom, YouTube, Periscope, or another platform. This may require adjusting your workouts to limit the amount of equipment necessary.
Similarly, hold in-person personal training sessions virtually via Facetime, Skype, G-Chat, WhatsApp, or the applications previously mentioned.
While it is not recommended, if it is absolutely necessary to have multiple people working out near each other, make sure they are spaced at least six feet apart and are not exhibiting any respiratory symptoms.
Avoid personal touch. Consider suspending certain practices such as spotting and assisted stretching. Wash your hands frequently, including after every contact with clients or other people.
Disinfect fitness equipment often
Disinfect all equipment, weights, mats, and machines after every use. Do not rely on customers to disinfect their own equipment. Also, disinfect communally touched objects such as doors, lockers, towel racks, benches, and drinking fountains/faucets.
Cater to high-risk employees and customers
If you have employees in high-risk groups, allow them the flexibility to take time off to limit their potential exposure to coronavirus. Also, encourage clients who may fall into these same categories to suspend in-person training.
Protect your business property
If you will be absent from your place of business for an extended time, take steps to ensure your property is secure and safe. Store any high-value fitness equipment out of sight from storefront windows and make sure your building is locked and secured with a security system.
Low-cost security cameras that stream surveillance video directly to your phone can help you keep an eye on your gym or studio.
Next Insurance supports fitness businesses
We have helped thousands of fitness business owners protect their investment with business insurance. As you deal with the uncertainty of the coronavirus crisis, we are standing by to assist with any insurance-related questions you may have.
Visit our dedicated webpage for fitness business insurance to learn more about the coverages that can protect your business. We are 100% committed to supporting your needs during this difficult time.
