Whitmer Allows Gyms, Pools To Reopen Across Michigan

MICHIGAN — The wait is nearly over for gym owners and those eager to get back to their workout routines. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has announced that gyms across the state can reopen Sept. 9. The governor also said indoor and outdoor sports are permitted, albeit with strict guidelines.

Whitmer on Thursday signed an executive order reopening Michigan's gyms and pools while also allowing organized sports to resume with strict safety guidelines. Gyms and pools can reopen Wednesday, according to the order.

“Throughout this pandemic, we have followed the best science and data available to make decisions that will keep Michiganders safe, and our hard work is paying off," Whitmer said in a statement. "Today we are announcing the reopening of gyms and pools with strict safety measures in place to protect patrons and their families. I urge everyone who plans to hit the gym after these orders go into effect to take these precautions seriously and do everything in their power to protect themselves and their families. Be smart, and stay safe.”

Don't miss important updates from health and government officials on the impact of the coronavirus in Michigan. Sign up for Patch's daily newsletters and email alerts.

Whitmer has been criticized for delaying reopening gyms and allowing sports in Michigan. A news conference Wednesday was expected to bring an update regarding one or both topics, but did not. When questioned on the matter, Whitmer told reporters a decision would be coming "very soon."

"COVID is still a very real threat all across our state," Whitmer said. "I will continue to treat it like that. I will have more to say on this topic very soon, so stay tuned."

Read More: Whitmer Says She Will Address Reopening Gyms, Sports 'Very Soon'

According to the order, all gyms and pools that reopen must enforce strict safety measures. Gyms must require wearing of masks at all times, including times of exercise. Social distancing is also required during exercise sessions, and class sizes must allow six feet of separation between participants.

Spectators for indoor organized sports are limited to the guests of the athletes, with each athlete designating up to two guests, according to the order. For outdoor sports competitions, the event organizer is required to limit the audience to just guests of participants or to 100 people or fewer — including players, coaches and staff.

The MDHHS on Thursday also released guidance regarding organized sports, recommending against contact sports at this time, including football, basketball and soccer. It also cites the elevated risk associated with activities that involve “shouting, singing, or breathing forcefully,” and notes there have been 30 reported outbreaks associated with athletic clubs, teams, or athletic facilities.

The state also recommends frequent hand washing, not letting players share towels or players, clothing and other safety measures to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

“As we begin to start organized sports back up again, I urge school districts and athletic associations to do everything in their power to protect players, coaches, and staff," Whitmer said. "That means carefully following the guidelines released today by DHHS.

“Going forward, we will continue to work with health experts to assess the risk associated with business sectors that remain closed. For the health and safety of our families and frontline workers, it is crucial that we proceed thoughtfully and incrementally so we can measure the effects of today's actions before we take additional steps towards re-engagement."