Masks are now mandatory in all indoor public places across the province including gyms, however, the rules aren’t as breathtaking as some may think.

The government’s non-medical mask rule states that masks must be worn in a fitness centre, dance studio or yoga studio with some exceptions.

Those exceptions are for people who are receiving a service or engaging in physical activity or other activity that requires it to be removed. In these cases, they may remove their mask for the duration of the treatment, service or activity only.

MAX Arts and Athletics is no exception. The Director of Growth and Marketing, Christa Steeves, says masks must be worn when entering the gym, in changerooms and on the way to and from group classes.

She says once you’re in a fitness class, you can remove your mask as they have designated, physically-distanced workout spaces. The same goes for the open gym.

Steeves says if you’re working out on your own or with a trainer, once you’re in the open gym, you can again remove your mask so you can breathe comfortably and get the oxygen you need while working out.

She believes the mask rule at the gym is really no different from anywhere else: Wear it when you come in, and again once you’re leaving.

And some good news for MAX gym-goers – Steeves says as of Tuesday, September 1, they’re permitted to re-open the showers and water-bottle filling stations.

She says it’s important to stay hydrated, and sometimes one water bottle isn’t enough. Now you can bring your bottle and fill it at the stations as usual.

Steeves says staff were trained with regards to the changes coming Tuesday.