After weeks of practising in a makeshift studio, surrounded by household furniture and dusty floorboards, the announcement of the reopening of fitness centres will fill many a studio-sick yogi and Zoom-fatigued student with glee.
And yet, the thrill of such newfound freedoms is understandably tempered by concerns for re-entering public spaces. Studio doors are once again reopening, but the space inside may prove unrecognisable. Maximising student, and staff, safety entails a reimagining of the classroom. Here is what to expect…
New health and safety regulations. Students will be required to check the studio’s media channels for new Covid-19 procedures, including social distancing measures and rules for students entering the studio.
– It’s more than possible that practitioners will be asked to agree to these new procedures. Signing onto a class is an agreement to follow all the studio policies, social distancing measures and safety regulations.
– All visitors will be required to wash their hands thoroughly before and after class, with
anti-bacterial and hand sanitiser readily available for use.
– Changing rooms and other studio facilities may not be open, so students should arrive to
class already kitted in their yoga-wear.
– Physical distancing measures will be in place within the studio. Anyone entering the
building will be expected to follow floor markings, signs and avoid approaching the reception desk, teachers or other students.
– Studios may stop providing yoga mats or additional equipment to customers. Instead, a
“bring your own” system will be in use to avoid sharing surfaces. All items brought into the studio should be cleaned before and after each class with antibacterial.
– Class capacity will be limited to adhere to social distancing measures, making it
necessary to book some time in advance. Some studios may operate a rotational system so as to offer students an equal chance of attending in-person classes.
– To reduce contact, class bookings will likely be carried out in advance online or via
contactless payment on the day.
– Students will be required to arrive at the studio at a set time to avoid people gathering
prior to the class.
– In-person classes may be streamed online for those who cannot attend due to social
distancing measures. Teachers will ask student consent for this to take place.
– Due to limited capacity, online classes will likely continue to some degree. Studios may
well integrate online classes to the in-person schedule to reach a wider audience.
While unfamiliar, these adjustments and temporary measures will ensure the longevity of our beloved yoga spaces.
Find out more news regarding this at the Yoga Alliance Professionals website here: