As Lancaster County went from the yellow phase to the green phase of the COVID-19 restrictions on June 26, Simon Ababou, fitness director with the Lititz recCenter, was concerned about area residents who had been through several months of cabin fever and related stresses.
"People lived in their homes for (the quarantine period) without (exercise) and with stress," said Ababou, who noted that families with children were also trying to finish the school year. "Some parents (were working at home) and became overstressed," he said, noting that people were also worried about losing their jobs, and about contracting the virus and being ill or dying. At the same time, the usual support systems may not have been in place. "People are cautious about talking with each other or getting close," said Ababou.
As the county entered the green phase, Ababou saw evidence that area residents are being more physically active. "We have (seen) some changes in our lifestyle," said Ababou, who has noticed community members outside walking and biking. He noted that a healthy body may have better defenses against disease. "When the cholesterol is down and blood pressure is down, (the body is healthier)," said Ababou, who noted that exercise can improve strength, balance, and coordination and that connecting wellness of the body with wellness of the mind can make for a more positive outlook. "We want to encourage people to find ways to get back to normal with precautions by following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines," Ababou said.
With that thought in mind, the rec center has released a notice about how the organization is following the CDC guidelines. The notice, posted near the front desk in the center's lobby, tells visitors about the efforts to keep the facility clean, the daily staff check-ins, the shields placed at the front desk, and the reduced capacity in program areas. It includes reminders about handwashing, wiping down equipment with approved disinfectants, and the new HVAC system that enables air quality monitoring. The notice concludes by stating that safe and healthy recreation for staff, members, and guests, is among the rec center's highest priorities and asking visitors to the center to join in taking recommended precautions, including avoiding close contact with people who are at risk; covering coughs and sneezes; avoiding touching their eyes, nose, and mouth; disinfecting frequently touched surfaces; and staying home if they are ill.
Ababou noted that the rec center has been outfitted for socially distant exercise. "We are keeping our facilities clean for a safe return," he said, noting that capacities for classes and in the fitness center have been reduced and floors have been marked for proper distancing. The center requests that members bring their own masks and towels. In the spin room, bikes are up to seven feet apart, and a card is required to register for one of only 16 spots. In the studio, the floor is marked for a capacity of 22 and classes last only 45 minutes. In the Body Pump room, there are yellow rectangles on the floor to assist with distancing, and the room has a capacity of 25. In the fitness center, every other machine can be used. Ababou pointed out that the center has new step and elliptical machines, treadmills, and recumbent bikes. In the weight room, all the machines are six feet apart. The pools are disinfected and treated with chlorine or bromine.
Ababou recommended one-on-one exercise with a personal trainer and masks for those who want to become more fit but are not sure how to get started. He noted that exercises like yoga or tai chi can be done alone or in socially distant groups and either inside or outside in appropriate weather. "Meditation is something people can do on their own at home with music," said Ababou. He also recommends massage therapy, counseling, coaching, and practicing gratitude. "Try to be positive," said Ababou. "Let's make sure we stay connected to (encourage) wellness of body and mind."
Readers who would like more information may visit http://www.lititzrec.com. Individuals who have questions or would like a tour of the rec center may call 717-626-5096, ext. 239, or email SimonAbabou@lititzrec.com.
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