BOSTON — Many gyms across Massachusetts plan to ditch their mask policies in alignment with the state’s full reopening on May 29.
Boston 25 News checked in with large gym chains, like Equinox and Planet Fitness, and smaller workout studios.
All plan to shift gears to a ‘mask optional’ policy for those who still want to wear a face covering.
Planet Fitness is asking unvaccinated people to continue wearing masks, but members won’t be required to show proof of vaccination.
“We will be using an honor system, asking them if they will please still wear a mask and protect others,” said James Norman, General Manager of the Planet Fitness in Watertown. “We won’t be checking immunization cards or anything like that.”
Norman believes the mask requirement being lifted will have a positive impact on gym attendance.
“I am expecting after the 29th to see a significant increase in memberships,” explained Norman.
Many gym members Boston 25 News spoke were excited that they won’t have to wear a mask for much longer.
“It’s tough to breathe in here when you’re working out doing any cardiovascular thing,” said Vinny Petracca.
Some said they still planned on wearing a mask for various reasons, including vaccination status.
“I haven’t been vaccinated yet so once I get vaccinated, maybe a few months after that, I will take my mask off and work out,” said Aaron Whitman.
Gyms in the state can increase capacity to 100 percent on May 29.
Planet Fitness and other gym locations in Massachusetts are still figuring out if some of the equipment will remain socially distanced.
Gyms are also waiting on more guidance on whether employees can also ditch their masks.
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