WEST BLOOMFIELD (WXYZ) — After being closed for nearly six months, the owners of Orchard Fitness in West Bloomfield are thrilled to be able to finally open their doors on Sept. 9. Customers will also see a lot of changes in the name of safety.
“We have rooftop units that bring in a certain percentage of fresh air automatically, we’ve had that and it’s also why this gym doesn’t smell like a gym," said Terin Azzo with Orchard Fitness.
The gym is set to reopen at 5 a.m. It's located on Orchard Lake Road, just south of 15 Mile Road. Azzo says their customers will notice a big difference when they return, with a ton of new safety measure in place.
“As far as the cardio equipment, we shut off every other unit for proper distancing between people. As far as weights, we’ll be walking around and advising people,” Azzo said.
After nearly 30 years of gym ownership, the family owned business and staff are pumped up to get everything ready. There will also be thermometers for temperature checks, plastic shielding at counters, hand sanitizing stations throughout the facility, social distancing, mandatory mask wearing, limited capacity and outdoor activities. Some fitness classes also soon will be shifting from Zoom to in-person, with proper separation.
“We’re missing that 1 on 1 with our members," said Lois Costello, a certified fitness instructor.
Costello is looking forward to seeing weights and spirits lifted. For active older adults, she'll soon have a customized "silver sneaker" program.
“Some cardio, light weights, balance, toning and stability, then a nice relaxing cool down at the end," Costello said.
And if you happen to forget you mask, don't worry – gym staff members say they have you covered with masks available on site.