The ARPA organized a Town Hall with Alberta Health representatives to clarify and answer questions on the new measures of Step 2 of the Path Forward.
Some of the Step 2 updates that came into effect on March 1st were the further easement of indoor fitness activities and libraries’ restrictions. Libraries are now allowed at 15% capacity. Fitness activities with low-intensity exercises or low-intensity group fitness are also now permitted. The order for high-intensity activity from Step 1 is still in effect with the one-on-one training consideration. There is a different guidance for sporting activities. The indoor fitness guidelines should not be used for team sports.
Some of the leading indicators showed a slight indication of spread resulting in caution in the Step 2 easement. Ease of restrictions on other items was later given on the second week of March. These are easements for banquet halls, community halls, conference centres, hotels, collegiate sport and recreation activities. Additional easements for performance and recreation activities and community easements for retail up to 25% capacity are also included in Step 2.
Further clarifications on the new measures were discussed. To effectively assess each case, the intention should be clear. Is it for fitness or training?
- In an aquatic environment, low-intensity fitness at 3 metres distance to other people or low-intensity fitness group at 3 metres apart in a class setting is permitted. There is a requirement, however, to wear masks. No exceptions. The sector is advised to design a program and make it low intensity with minimum splashing and doesn’t require the head to get underwater. One of the parameters considered was permanent walled-off areas, with their own space and ventilation. It is the ideal setup in a facility. Facility operators can also consult their local health inspector and talk about what might work in their facility.
- Community halls are open for the activities that are permitted. Youth-based recreation programs, wedding ceremonies and funeral ceremonies can take place. From a recreation perspective, guides, scouts, 4-H groups can have their group activity. This easement is not intended for a workplace to book a meeting. Where possible, it should be done virtually. It is still not a good time to bring people together.
- For the distinction between high intensity and low intensity, note the risk. The heavier and harder the breathing is, the more risk there is. By definition, “Low-intensity fitness includes activities not focused specifically on cardio, which have a low depth and rate of respiration.” Normally, if you are out of breath doing the activity, it’s high intensity, but it depends on the individual. Hence, it is not just the facility operators, but the accountability is in all of us in making sure the recent guidelines are followed.
- Minimal time in dressing rooms is still advised. Anytime that can minimize those shared spaces would be better. For an indoor group fitness setting, there is no max of 10 in a room. The restriction will be how many people can get in the room with the appropriate distancing of 3 metres. Also, a face shield is not a substitute for masks.
- In cases where an animal welfare issue is involved, like horseback riding, the activity is not permitted considering the idea of sport. But exercising the horse could go.
Most of the time, it always comes down to the intent and the age group. If it’s a permitted activity, it can take place in any setting unless stated otherwise. Next is intent and then the age group. The Alberta Health representatives are always monitoring the leading indicators to make sure trends are not moving in the wrong direction. You may refer to the Town Hall recording and the Enhanced Public Health Measures for additional information on the new measures of Step 2.