Let me start by telling you that I have two goals during this pandemic:
- To get my SARS-CoV-2 antibodies from a vaccine, and not from an infection of the virus. By extension, this means that this is a goal I’ve set for all of my clients as well.
- To make DeVine Physiques the safest training space in Los Angeles.
Having my own private training space makes these goals attainable as I already have a leg up on other trainers: There is never anymore than my client and I in the space at any given time. In addition to the private environment, I wanted to outline the different measures I’m taking to ensure the safest training environment possible. They can be split into 3 categories: Equipment, Procedures, and PPE.
Equipment
- In each room I have a new 3 process air purifier (including UVC spectrum ultraviolet light) that can neutralize viruses. Given the specs of each and the area they can cover, the air in each room should be cycled around 10 times per hour.
- In addition the air purifiers, I will have both AC units running regardless of temperature / client preference. One of the main functions of an air conditioner is to remove humidity from the air, so keeping these running ensures moisture particles aren’t circulating in the space.
- I am no longer using certain attachments / handles due to the inability to effectively sterilize them. (e.g. No more rope attachment, soft handles, etc.) These attachments will not be used for the foreseeable future.
Procedures (Cleaning, Social Distancing, etc.)
- Any surface that anyone contacts at any point will be cleaned with one of three types of cleanser (depending on the surface): Isopropyl / Ethyl Alcohol above 70% v/v, diluted bleach solution, or cleansing wipes.*
- At the end of each day, I will be spraying down my floor with a diluted bleach solution.
- I will ensure each client’s session ends on time and will also strive to ensure each client leaves at the 55 minute mark. This is in line with my policy of sessions being between 40 and 55 minutes long, but this also ensures everyone can keep proper distance; it also gives me adequate time to clean in between each session.
- I am taking my temperature regularly to check for any elevation in my body temperature.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) / Personal Hygiene
- Each day I will be wearing a fresh face mask with a filter (or two masks) that is laundered after use.
- With each session I will wear a new pair of disposable gloves, and will properly dispose of them at the end of each session.
- I will wash and / or sanitize my hands in between clients when I change gloves.
In addition to these steps, I have made certain items available for you to use:
- Alcohol prep pads to sanitize items you’ve brought with you into the studio.
- Single use gloves (vinyl and / or nitrile) for you to use while working out if you’d like.
- Sandwich bags for storing any items you’ve brought with you into the studio and prevent them from contacting surfaces.
- Hand sanitizer (which was already available).
- Simple Surgical Masks are available for those that forget their own mask to wear.
Here are two things I am asking for from my clients:
- In the past, I’ve made it clear that you’re free to come in up to 5 minutes before your session starts. I am now asking that you do not come in early, and instead come in at your start time. This ensures proper social distancing and gives me adequate time to clean in between each session.
- If you’re able to, please wear a mask. I am not requiring it due to variances in each mask’s breath-ability, each individual’s unique lung capacity / strength, and a variety of other factors. However if you’re able to, it’s much appreciated! It’s worth noting that I won’t judge if you can’t wear one due to feeling short of breath; I don’t want anyone passing out while training.
I’m always assessing ways I can make the studio cleaner / safer, and you may see even more adjustments as I see fit. I appreciate you taking your time to read this, and am happy to answer any questions you may have.
Yours in health,
Gianna DeVine
* I’m using different cleaning solutions depending on the surface and / or product availability; an alcohol solution is volatile and will evaporate faster than a bleach solution, so may be ready for use sooner than if cleaned with a bleach solution. Also, bleach is very harsh on most surfaces.