HALLETT CENTER UPDATES
Updated 1/21/21
*Please read & scroll down for the sign up links!
- What is the mask requirement? On July 25, 2020 the Governor issued Executive Order 20-81 that states everyone in Minnesota are required to wear a face covering in all indoor businesses and public indoor spaces, unless alone. Additionally, workers are required to wear a face covering when working outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. On January 4, 2021 this mask requirement was expanded as a requirement for fitness centers, youth and adult sports. While we know this requirement is not favorable to all, we are still required to operate under the executive order.
- Why do we require online sign up? Under the Executive Order, all gyms & fitness facilities were required to establish a reservation system. The reason for this requirement was twofold. First, until further notice we can only operate at 25% capacity. Using a reservation system allows us to manage the maximum number of users we can have in any given space. Secondly, the reservation system deters congregation in the facility. We want people to come and use our facility, but we also need to maximize user opportunity to move people through during the hours of operation.
- Why do we limit time slots for member use? Establishing arbitrary time slots for membership is an inexact science. The blocks of times we adopted were based on the notion of accommodating MOST users. We realize some people will desire a longer workout and some won’t require the full time period. The staff have done their best in working with people on a case by case basis to accommodate user needs.
- Why is it important to be punctual with allotted times? Much like any other facility, certain times of the day are busier than others. Being punctual for your time slot is important for the staff to monitor use, but is also important out of respect for other users in adjacent time slots. So far we have been pretty flexible and successful with this but ultimately we rely heavily on our users to self-regulate.
- What are we doing to encourage social distancing? Because the footprint of the facility is limited, we ask our users to self-regulate with regards to the social distancing requirements. One proactive step we have taken is to move 4 pieces of fitness center equipment into the conference room for use there. We always encourage people to be respectful about patience when using equipment and believe spreading equipment out where we can will encourage maintaining the best social distancing practices.
- Why do you require clean shoes in the fitness center? It’s Minnesota! We all deal with dirt sand and salt being tracked into our houses and definitely into the Hallett Center. Regardless of the season, we need our users to bring clean shoes into the facility. There is a tremendous investment in the fitness equipment we own. Care, maintenance, upkeep and cleaning are those things that happen behind the scenes. Any dirt, salt or sand is absolutely detrimental to the lifespan of the equipment. Debt retirement of the equipment is challenging at best so any prevention is the best maintenance.
- How are you managing youth hockey? The Hallett Center is an important player in youth & high school hockey across the region. We have done a few things as proactive steps to mitigate possible Covid19 transmission between our hockey visitors and membership. First, all youth hockey foot traffic is being directed through the north entrance of the building and exiting out the arena doors. Controlling the traffic has been largely effective in separating the users in the building. As with many things there have been some growing pains with this, but it has been generally well received. Second, our maximum spectator capacity has been set a 62 people. We are managing this number in cooperation with the NLYHA & high school athletic directors. While other facilities have a higher spectator capacity, we are limited by our physical seating footprint divided by the social distancing requirements. Lastly, though we have always closed locker rooms during hockey, we do allow member access through the pool deck. Our youth hockey athletes & visitors are directed to use the restrooms by the south entrance of the building.
January 2021
Fitness Center Sign Up
Swimming Pool Sign Up
AquaFit Sign Up
Please be patient with the Hallett Center staff as we navigate through these challenging times. We will do our absolute best to provide the most accurate information as we receive it. Thank You!
Hallett Center-COVID-19-Preparedness-Plan
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The Hallett Community Center exists to enrich the lives of the people we serve by promoting health, wellness and recreational opportunities for the region including Crosby-Ironton, Brainerd, Aitkin, Bay Lake, Garrison, in north central Minnesota.
Whether you’re looking for a serious workout on your own or with a certified trainer – we’re ready for you! If you seek special group fitness classes at times convenient to your busy day, look to the Hallett Community Center.
For the more information regarding classes, activities, and programs find us on Facebook.
Call during regular business hours for information: 218-546-2616.