This semester is bringing change to Shippensburg University’s campus due to COVID-19, but luckily the ShipRec will be bringing a sense of normalcy to students this fall.
The university has allowed the ShipRec to reopen for student use this semester for personal and group fitness activities.
ShipRec will be taking precautions to ensure safety for those who use its facilities.
“Students can expect to see a lot of changes in the Rec this semester to comply with guidelines and promote safety,” said senior Courtney Lesik, a ShipRec employee. “We have made the necessary changes so that social distancing is possible throughout the building as well as requiring temperature checks upon arrival.”
In addition to distancing and temperature checks, there is now one entrance and exit to the building.
Students and staff will be required to wear masks throughout the building with the exception of some cardio machines that have plexiglass shields for protection.
ShipRec staff will be doing their part to help keep the ShipRec a safe place as well.
“Rec employees will be wearing masks at all times and sanitizing commonly touched surfaces and equipment more often throughout the day,” Lesik said.
There will also be more ShipRec staff members placed throughout the building to make sure cleaning is being completed and that students are following the new policies.
In order for the ShipRec to stay open, following the new policies is a must, according to Lesik. “Unfortunately, we have already seen some defiance regarding mask wearing, but staff members are knowledgeable on how to approach these situations to make sure everyone can feel safe and comfortable at the Rec,” she said.
Students who choose to not wear a mask will be asked to put one on the first time. After a second offense, the student will be given a warning and if they choose to continue to disobey the mask policy, may be asked to leave immediately, according to Lesik.
As for group fitness, the ShipRec will still be offering fitness classes such as yoga and cardio kickboxing. Students can choose to participate in outdoor classes, or join the classes via zoom.
The ShipRec’s social media keeps students up to date on what classes will be offered and when.
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