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Mask back on: Gov. Roy Cooper mandating face masks while working out

On Monday, the latest coronavirus numbers prompted Gov. Roy Cooper to enforce stricter mask mandates which included requiring masks while working out in the gym.

Posted Updated

By
Kirsten Gutierrez
, WRAL reporter

On Monday, the latest coronavirus numbers prompted Gov. Roy Cooper to enforce stricter mask mandates that included requiring masks while working out in the gym.

Some gym goers said this new mandate will make them transition to more outdoor workouts, while others said it won't stop them from going to the gym.

For gym owners, they're worried it'll cost them even more business, and that's something they said they can't afford.

From temperature checks at the door to social distancing, designated stations and frequent cleaning, Orange Theory has a strict protocol already in place for gym goers.

Now, runners and walkers on the treadmill, on the rowers, the bikes will all be required to wear masks.

"We're designed to be able to coach through a challenge such as this based on our training, but it is difficult for us from a business perspective," said Leigh Cunius, Orange Theory's regional manager.

Owners said they're worried the new mandate to wear masks while exercising indoors will turn clients away, but they'll do whatever it takes to stay open.

"That's just going to be the price of admission. You'll have to understand the rules and abide by them, or else you're not going to be able to utilize the facility, and that's just going to be a hard line we're going to have to draw," said Orange Theory Grown Partners COO Fred Bryant.

Some gym goers don’t mind the new mandate.

"I will definitely still come. Even if I was in a cast, I would still come," said Tori Paces.

Others say it’ll be a challenge, pushing them towards other means of working out.

"I think all of us want to continue to be in shape and none of us want to struggle to breathe while we work out," said Ian McAlister.

City and state leaders explained it's a small price to pay for the well-being of the community.

"My hope is that businesses got word from the governor today," said Raleigh Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin. "He sent out a dire warning. We are in danger; we don't want our hospitals overrun."

The new executive order takes effect at 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

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