Centers offer safer workout option
The coronavirus pandemic started with misinformation and confusion, but early on it was decided that person-to-person transmission played a critical role in the spread of the new infection.
For example, for months, the World Health Organization said masks weren’t recommended for the public because the covering did little to protect the wearer or others.
That’s how Jason Rogers, Jefferson Regional Medical Center Wellness Center co-manager, described the first few months that started about a year ago and continues.
Gov. Asa Hutchinson shut down schools and closed indoor venues, such as gyms, to “nonessential functions” last March because of the rapid spread of the virus, and the hospital’s two Wellness Centers were closed.
While best practices and treatments continue to evolve as researchers work, continued social isolation is taking its toll on the health of residents of Jefferson County.
“It’s been devastating on our physical, mental and social well being,” but perhaps the vaccine will be the first step in change, Rogers said. Medical experts say it’s not a guarantee of not catching the virus, but it may result in a less severe case.
Rogers said he received his vaccination when he was first able.
SOCIAL DISTANCING AND MASKS
Now nearly a year into the pandemic, the hospital’s fitness centers are open, but their offerings remain limited in scope. Unlike many private gyms, Rogers said, because of their association with the hospital, the staff strictly abides by the state Department of Health guidelines.
Since the centers partially reopened June 15, Rogers said, “We stepped it up a notch.”
This included a spacing of equipment of 12 feet, masks worn by staff, as well as members upon entering and exiting the facility.
“We have plenty of antibacterial wipes available. It was a true struggle finding them,” after their supplier said it would be January 2021 before they could ship more, Rogers said. They scrambled to find other suppliers.
The number and variety of classes they offered were downsized, and like in the rest of the facility, 12 feet is required between participants.
Currently, they hold early morning and late afternoon and evening Spin and Body Flow classes at White Hall, and Body-Pump and BodyStep classes at Pine Bluff.
Jefferson Regional Medical Center has a 22,500-square foot facility at 1301 W. 40th Ave. at Pine Bluff and a newer one, the 12,250-square feet at 1600 W. Holland at White Hall.
The White Hall facility has a variety of cardio equipment, free weights and two racquetball courts.
ISOLATION ISN’T HEALTHY
The “covid 15,” a reference to the weight many people have gained during the shutdown, that’s proving somewhat true for many. Whether walking, biking or working out, Rogers recommends some form of exercise.
It helps reduce stress and control weight gain.
More than “80%t of individuals who lose weight and keep it off for at least five years, exercise regularly,” so this is not the time to slack off, he said.
Also, Rogers said, “Studies have shown that physical activity can be as effective as medicine at treating depression.”
Joining a walking group or a gym, while taking precautions against spread of the virus, Rogers said, is a “great way to meet people with like interests and similar goals. It also makes us feel more content and happy, making us better friends and family members.”