Sacramento County Not Allowing Gyms, Small Fitness Studios Open Yet

A man lifts a barbell as he works out while being socially distant from others at Momentum Fitness. Gyms Reopening
Photo credit © Alicia Devine/Tallahassee Democrat via Imagn Content Services, LLC

The State of California has given Sacramento County permission to move further into phase 2 of the state’s reopening plan.

Restaurants will be awarded temporary permits that will allow them to use parking and outdoor areas for temporary seating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, on Thursday, the Sacramento County Director of Health Services, Dr. Peter Beilenson released a statement saying the county has been discussing with the state Department of Public Health and decided they would not approve the reopening of gyms or fitness studios of any kind at this point.

“The Department of Health Services was willing to work with small fitness studios to re-open based on significant restrictions and requirements that ensured ample space between customers and staff and disinfecting shared equipment in order to protect public health. However, we have received feedback from the state Department of Public Health that no gyms or small fitness studios of any kind may re-open at this point, and we will respect and follow that guidance.” said Beilenson, in a statement.

Originally, gyms and small fitness locations were scheduled to open if following strict COVID-19 guidlines. 

Indoor gatherings of any size — including inviting people to your home — is still not allowed or included in the re-opening. Outdoor gatherings will be permitted but only if 10 or fewer people attend.