BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York Governor Andrew Cuomo released guidelines that gyms across the state must have in place in order for them to reopen.
Cuomo says gyms can reopen as soon as August 24 with 33% capacity in the gym and have until September 2, if they need more time.
"If it's not done right, it can be a problem and we've seen that so I wouldn't say exactly it's the hardest but it is an area of concern that's why we went slow on it," Cuomo said.
The governor also said that masks must be worn at all times and gyms must have the HVAC ventilation, similar to what malls were required to have before reopening. Also, members must sign in and out each time they attend to make it easier if contact tracing becomes necessary.
The governor added that gyms must be inspected before reopening.
"Research what has happened in gyms all across the country research what the best protocol is according to the health officials and implement the best guidelines which us exactly what we've done," Cuomo said.
On Monday, we heard from Amy Bueme, the owner of Catalyst Fitness. She says relief and excitement are just some of the emotions she is feeling now that she has a path forward to reopen after five months of being in the dark.
"I'm really looking forward to August 24th to getting the clubs open and I'm just so happy that today is here," she said.
Bueme says she doesn't see any reason why she won't be able to re-open a week from Monday and that the requirement to wear masks at all times will be emphasized.
"You can change your mask out and throw it out if you need to do that, but at all times you have to have it on, so if we see someone who does not have a mask on we're going to have to ask them you have to put it on or they're going to have to leave," Bueme said.
If any Catalyst gyms get to capacity she says she'll have to tell people to wait outside.
Catalyst Fitness has removed certain workout equipment like yoga mats and medicine balls, and anything that absorbs sweat to make sanitation easier.
Gyms have been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic began in March and owners have been calling on Gov. Cuomo and the state to allow them to reopen.
