Melrose Y Is Back In Business — With Some Changes

MELROSE, MA — People are getting their sweat on at the Melrose Family YMCA once again.

The downtown Y reopened Monday, months after closing due to the coronavirus pandemic. Like with everything else, there are new rules and restrictions for people wanting to get back into their recreational flow.

"It is important to all of us here at the YMCA that we are taking every necessary steps to ensure the safety or our members and staff as we welcoming them back into our YMCA," Melrose Y Executive Manager Katelyn Papadopoulos told Patch.

Of course, all staff and members will be required to wear masks — even while working out. And no surprise that the fitness and strength equipment have been rearranged as to allow for state-mandated social distancing. There will be 6-foot tall plexiglass shields between cardio equipment.

The lobby has been redesigned for social distancing and there are new sanitization and hygiene protocols, including more hand sanitization stations. All water fountains have been replaced with touchless water bottle fillers.

Reservations must be made for swimming lanes and group workout classes.

The Y will continue to expand offerings and amenities, including a 4-week mini-program session Aug. 3. The sessions will include aquatics classes, adult and teen small group classes and youth skill and drills.

"As we begin to offer limited programs, we are still concentrating on providing our members with a healthy and safe environment while still ensuring they have a fun and rewarding experience," Papadopoulos said.