Falk Recreation Center Set to Reopen!
Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced that gyms and fitness centers in New York State could open again, stipulating that strict guidelines should be followed to ensure the safety of patrons and staff. Following the governor’s dictate, the staff of the Falk Recreation Center has taken significant steps to change policies, facility layouts, programs, staffing, and more so that. And earlier this week, they announced that the Falk Center will reopen on Monday, September 14!
![The Falk Center has redesigned its workout space according to COVID-19 safety standards]()
The Falk Center has redesigned its workout space according to COVID-19 safety standards
“The better we’re able to follow protocols—from disinfecting equipment and wearing masks to proper spacing while using facilities—the better we can ensure that our campus community continues to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” said Andrew Adham, manager of the center. “The health and safety of our membership and staff remains our top priority.”
“The Falk Center team has been outstanding in getting the facility ready to welcome our members back,“ said Yvonne Ramirez, vice president for human resources “Their preparation and application for reopening was so complete that the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene inspected and approved the reopening within 24 hours of our application submission. With everyone’s cooperation in following all New York State requirements, the Einstein community will be able to continue enjoying all that the Falk Center offers.“
Let’s Go to the Manual
“We’ve worked with individuals in many departments, including infectious diseases experts, to be sure our reopening will be safe,” explained Andrew. “We’ve also developed a Reopening Manual so that patrons will know what to expect from us and what’s expected of them.”
He added, “We ask that members take time to read through the manual to acquaint themselves with all changes, as that will help to ensure their individual well-being and that of other center members, staff, and the greater Einstein community.”
Noting that the changes made are quite extensive, Andrew shared some highlights:
- A health assessment screening, wearing a mask, and a temperature check at the door are all required for entry
- A capacity limit below state guidelines
- The closure of group fitness, aquatics, and recreation areas, per New York City guidelines
- Upgraded HVAC filters (higher grade than New York State standard) and addition of multiple HEPA-filtered units in the facility
- Spacing of equipment six feet apart
- Installation of new touchless water-refill stations, flushometers, and sinks
- Signage throughout the facility that reinforces new policies
- Increased cleaning frequency for all equipment, locker rooms, and high-touch surfaces
Keeping Options Open
Because of state restrictions, and mindful that some Falk Center members may still be hesitant to return to the gym, the staff is continuing to employ some of the creative solutions that have kept us moving throughout the pandemic, including classes via Zoom, recordings of those classes for those who can’t take part live, and at-home workout sheets available as printable PDF files. The home workouts are also accessible via the Falk Center Instagram page: @falkreccenter.
Access to Zoom classes in real time is possible through Einstein’s internal COVID-19 site. Simply look for them under “Einstein Virtual Gym” within the “Important Employee Resources” section of the site and click on the appropriate link.
“We’ve teamed with student activities and human resources to provide the classes, and those will continue to be available to any member of the Einstein community, not just Falk members,” said Andrew. “They have proved to be popular during these stressful times and we’re happy to provide everyone easy access for working off steam and staying fit.” Viewers must login with their active directory credentials to view live programs.
“Having the videos and workouts sheets allows members of the Einstein community to plan their fitness when it’s convenient for them, and they can even repeat a workout that they enjoyed," added Jake Kuhl, a center assistant manager who makes sure the videos get posted each day. “Having the videos makes the classes available to more members of our Einstein community, and we want to be sure that anyone who has an interest in the classes has access.”
Taking Fitness Outside at Einstein
For those who enjoy fresh air, there also are facilities atop the parking garage roof, including a tennis court, basketball hoops, and a running/walking track. Any member of the Einstein community can reserve use of these spaces by contacting the Falk Center staff at x4298.
“There’s a limit to how many people can use the rooftop facilities, at one time,” noted Christopher LaColla, an assistant manager of the center. “It’s important that we adhere to the governor’s guidelines, and we’ve got signage inside and out to remind everyone.” Those using the outdoor facilities may also borrow center equipment, such as tennis racquets and balls, and basketballs.
For questions about the reopening, reserving space, and available equipment within the center, please email Andrew.adham@einsteinmed.org.
Posted on: Tuesday, September 15, 2020