Florence’s Sports Facilities Reopen

After more than two months of forced closure, gyms, swimming pools and other sports facilities will finally reopen in Florence and Tuscany from the week commencing Monday, May 25. While Florentines will once again have the opportunity to exercise and work out at sports centres rather than going for walks and runs outdoors or getting creative with home gym equipment, all facilities are of course reopening in accordance with new rules and protocols designed to continue the prevention of the spread of coronavirus.

The most obvious new rule to comply with, will of course be the continuation of social distancing, in all facilities at all times. In gyms, this translates to the standard physical distance of two metres (6.5 ft.), while in swimming pools, guests will be asked to keep a distance of at least seven square metres in terms of water surface per person (except for members of the same household).  A distance of at least a metre-and-a-half (3.2 ft.) will have to be observed by those using deckchairs, while equipment in and around both gyms and swimming pools will have to be disinfected after use by each customer. Furthermore, gym users need to bring sneakers just to put on at the facility, and not arrive wearing them, 

These rules will of course also apply to those taking part in fitness courses and lessons, where gatherings occur frequently; personal trainers and coaches will thus be obliged to ensure all customers do keep a safe distance apart from each other. Disinfectant gels will also be made readily available and using them will be encouraged, while thermoscanners may also be used to measure guests’ body temperature, with data recorded and stored for 14 days. In order to enter facilities, masks must be worn, but not during physical activity; fitness instructors, however, are required to wear a mask and gloves.  (alfie king)