“We are very excited that Governor Cooper is allowing gyms to reopen at 30% capacity,” shared HRHFC Director Scotty Setser. “We’ve been preparing, and we hope the public will have patience with us as we finalize details over the next couple of weeks.” The Fitness Center has already undergone important planning to reopen safely, including tagging machines to maintain social distancing and heightened cleaning protocols. Currently, the second floor air system is being completely replaced, a solution the Fitness Center has had in the plans for some time. It’s estimated the air improvements will be finalized mid-month. 

In the meantime, the gym will open to HRMC employees, allowing healthcare workers to utilize the facility first. A medical team will assess the workout process during this time to see what additional precautions should be implemented before reopening to the public. Fitness Center staff are also assessing best practices for entering/exiting the building to minimize contact with patients (who have been attending appointments in the facility for several months). “We’re not just a gym,” explains Setser, “We’re a healthcare facility, too. And we want everyone – patients and members – to feel safe. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back very soon.”

The Fitness Center will continue to waive member fees until the gym is reopened. Updates to the Fitness Center’s reopening will be shared publicly through press releases and on the HRMC website and social media channels. 

To learn more about how HRMC COVID-19 preparedness, visit https://www.myhaywoodregional.com/coronavirus-covid-19-preparedness-information.