The safety of our children, members, program participants and Y staff continues to remain our highest priority and we will continue to follow guidance from the CDC and our local public health authorities.
As we evolve in our reopening process for our membership center locations, the YMCA of Central Ohio is implementing the following safety protocols in an effort to reduce the health risks for members, staff and other visitors to our facility.
All staff will be required to wear masks and other personal protective equipment.
Members will be asked to self-scan to allow for limited contact entry.
All open areas inside the Y have been evaluated and redesigned where necessary to help ensure social distancing between members. Signage on equipment and floor markers throughout our spaces are placed prominently to help drive awareness and help enforce social distancing requirements.
We actively track the capacity in our programs and spaces throughout the building by the software we use for our check-in and check-out system. We have also implemented an online reservation system for group fitness classes and amenities, such as using the pool. You can track the capacity of your branch at any given time, y going to our locations page on this site. Check Branch Capacity
Your YMCA has increased the frequency of cleaning high-touch surfaces throughout the day. Staff also perform regular and routine deep cleaning practices in the middle of the day and at closing.
YMCA members must adhere to the following safety precautions during their visits:
In light of guidelines and orders issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and State of Ohio, your YMCA will no longer require masks for members and guests who are fully vaccinated.
Fully Vaccinated Members
Effective immediately, mask wearing is completely optional in all spaces for members and guests who are fully vaccinated. In accordance with the guidance issued on May 13, 2021 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals are considered to be fully vaccinated after two full weeks have passed since their second dose of a 2-dose series vaccine or following two full weeks of a single-dose vaccine. Your YMCA will not be requiring proof of vaccinations; it will be on the honor system.
Unvaccinated Members
Unvaccinated members and guests will be required to continue wearing masks/facial coverings in designated areas throughout the branches until June 2. As a best practice for health and wellness, we continue to encourage social distancing while at our locations.
Anytime unvaccinated members are not actively working out, they need to wear their mask. Examples include, but are not limited to:
entering and exiting the facility
cleaning equipment
walking between exercises on the fitness floor
all common areas - pool deck, locker room, etc
while in between sets in the free weight and weight machine areas
How to Select, Wear, and Clean Your Mask
Members are not required to wear their masks while on cardio machines, swimming or while engaged in activity in group fitness classes.
Stay Home if You’re Sick: Members should stay home if they don’t feel well or if they are awaiting COVID-19 test results. The CDC and state public health officials encourage seniors and members of vulnerable populations, including those with underlying health conditions, to stay at home.
Bring a Towel, a Mask, and a Water Bottle: Members will be asked to bring their own water bottle and a personal workout towel. The Y also requests that unvaccinated members bring a facial covering and wear it whenever possible, especially in common areas where others are present.
Keep Your Distance: Please exercise on designated equipment only and respect all signage regarding social distancing. Strive to maintain at least six feet between you and others whenever possible.
Wash Your Hands: We recommend members wash hands upon entering the facility and often throughout their time at the Y.
Expect Reduced Capacity: To ensure proper social distancing, our wellness areas will have a limited capacity. At times of full capacity you will be asked to wait in a designated area until space is available.
Clean Equipment Before & After Use: Please help us reduce the risk of exposure by wiping down all equipment, weights, mats, etc. with the provided cleaning materials.