MARQUETTE — Proceed with caution seems to be the theme for gyms and fitness centers in Marquette County since Gov. Gretchen Whitmer allowed the facilities to reopen June 10 in the Upper Peninsula.

Safety, social distancing and sanitization are key components of several local centers’ plans, with employees and gym clients expected to keep exercise equipment clean.

“Things sometimes feel a little different right now, but with social responsibility in mind,” the YMCA-Marquette Facebook page states, “together we are ensuring a ‘better us’ continues.”

In compliance with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the staff at area fitness facilities like Synergy Fitness, Anytime Fitness and the YMCA will be wearing masks, but in most cases, gym members are not being asked to do so beyond the front door.

Clients at most facilities are being asked to bring their own towels and water bottles as drinking fountains are not available, and are asked to maintain a 6-foot distance, but in some cases, they are asked to maintain a span of 10 feet between themselves and others.

Some facilities are performing wellness checks, while others are simply asking clients who are feeling under the weather to stay home.

A post on the YMCA website states that the facility has put “careful thought into reopening.”

“As we welcome the community back to the Y, we want to assure you that safety remains our top priority,” the website states. “We have taken all necessary steps to ensure the safety of our members, program participants, volunteers and staff. This means things will look and feel a little different. We have followed guidance from the CDC, local health agencies and public officials to update our policies, practices and procedures to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene and make appropriate accommodations for physical/social distancing so that every person who walks through our doors can stay safe and protected while getting back to what matters most: your health, your family and friends, and your community.”

Information about operations at Synergy Fitness, Anytime Fitness and the YMCA of Marquette can be found on their Facebook pages.

Lisa Bowers can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 242. Her email address is lbowers@miningjournal.net.