Wellness Center Reopening Information

                

 

FAQs & Information

Who has current access to the facility?

What are the hours of operation?

What are some of the new policies/procedures that I should be made aware of?

How many members are allowed in the facility at the same time? Is there a place where I can view that information?

What facility programs and services are available now?

When will Open Recreation be available? Is there limited capacity?

Will there be any offerings for Intramural Sports?

Will Group Exercise classes be offered?

Do I need to wear a face mask while exercising in the facility? What should I expect while wearing a mask while exercising?

Can I bring in some of my own personal equipment to use?

What are your social distancing guidelines while in the facility?

Can I purchase a guest pass to visit the facilities?

Is personal training available?

What else is Worcester State University doing to keep the Wellness Center clean and disinfected?

How is Worcester State University tracking symptoms and testing?

What happens if someone does not follow the new policies, procedures, or guidelines for participation and access?

What happens if there is a reported positive case/test result?

 

  • Who has current access to the facility?

    • In order to offer the safest environment (also to de-densify the campus) for those living and working at Worcester State University, the Wellness Center facility is currently open to our enrolled students and eligile faculty and staff only. General membership is open to the Korzec Golf Simulator. Alumni & Community memberships will begin on Monday, May 16, 2022. More information can be found on the Safe Campus website. 
  • What are the hours of operation? 

                   Academic Year 2021-2022 hours are as follows (beginning January 18, 2022)*;

  • Monday-Thursday  7:00am-9:00pm
  • Friday  7:00am-8:00pm
  • Saturday  9:00am-5:00pm
  • Sunday  10:00am-9:00pm
  • What are some of the new policies/procedures that I should be made aware of?

    • Everyone will need to have an up-to-date Completed Online Waiver (see directions here)
    • You'll be required to complete the symptom checker via your mobile device and the Coverified app only through Tuesday, March 22, 2022
      • if you are not cleared ("Restricted"), you will not be allowed to enter (contact pvernucci@worcester.edu for app related issues)
      • the cleared status must be within the last 24 hours - not a screenshot
      • show a "CLEARED" status upon the use of your WSU OneCards to enter
    • Through Tuesday, March 22, 2022 you will be required to wear a face covering/mask at all times, unless unsafe due to medical condition or disability. Because of the continuing challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, every student, faculty, staff member and guest at Worcester State is required to wear an appropriate mask that covers both nose and mouth at all times in buildings. These include the blue surgical masks, WSU masks with filter distributed by the University as well as KN 95 and N 95 masks. Cloth masks and other types of face coverings and shields do NOT meet this standard.
    • You will still be asked to clean equipment before and after use with provided wipes, sprays and paper/towels. 
    • To ensure the safest environment possible we ask that you maintain your proper attire as always (Reasons for Maintaining an Attire Policy in Recreational Sports Facilities).
    • Please bring a water bottle to be refilled at a fill stations. Water fountains will be offline otherwise until Wednesday, March 23, 2022.
  • How many members are allowed in the facility at the same time? Is there a place where I can view that information?

  • What facility programs and services are available?

    • At this time our #1 priority is safety! Currently the DeFeudis Fitness Center, Golf Simulator, Open Rec and Bike Rental are open and available.
    • The DeFeudis Fitness Center will follow the Wellness Center Hours.
    • The Outdoor Track is available for use by all (when there is no group/team on the track/turf). 
    • The Indoor Track is open for our students and faculty/staff only. 
    • General use Locker Rooms are fully available.  
    • Outdoor Tennis Courts are available. 
    • Outdoor Basketball Courts are available (adjacent to Chandler Village). 
    • Open Recreation in the Multipurpose Gymnasium and/or Competition Gymnasium will return in a limited capacity for the spring 2022 semester.
  • When will Open Recreation be available? Is there limited capacity?

    • Extremely limited for Spring 2022
  • Will there be any offerings for Intramural Sports (click the link for all the details)?

    • This spring semester we will be offering opportunities throughout the semester! Be on the lookout for things like 3v3 Basketball, Flag Football, Dodgeball, eSports tournaments, Golf Simulator challenges, Corn Hole, Kan-Jam, Ladder Ball, Pickleball, Tennis and much more. The We will continue to offer a wide variety of opportunities through our Virtual Recreation & Wellness site as well. 
  • Will Group Exercise classes be offered?

    • We will be back in person for the spring 2022 semester schedule with our popular Yoga, CycleFit, Pink Gloves Boxing, Zumba and other classes! More information about the classes can be found here, including registration and additional class information. If you are not joining us in person, we will continue to offer a wide variety of opportunities through our Virtual Recreation & Wellness site
  • Do I need to wear a face mask while exercising in the facility? What should I expect while wearing a mask while exercising?

    • In order to best protect our WSU community, YES you will be required to wear a face covering/mask while working out (and everywhere indoors on campus) until Wednesday, March 23, 2022. At that time WSU masking in the Wellness Center will be a choice.* We encourage you to bring a second covering/mask with you as over time your mask will get sweaty, and more uncomfortable over time. Be sure the mask is a proper fit, and is covering your nose and mouth (How to Wear Masks, CDC). Check your maskA candle will not be able to be blown out while wearing a proper face covering/mask! 
      • *As of March 23, 2022 most spaces within the WSU Wellness Center will not require a mask.
        • Please note that masks will still be required for everyone:
          • inside instructional spaces defined as classrooms (this includes the Wellness Center rooms like 201 and 212), labs and the library
          • masks will still be available at the Front Desk
          • when visiting Student Health Services
          • while riding shuttles or buses
          • with approved medical and religious waivers
          • in large, indoor University events defined as more than 500 people
          • engaged in on-site fieldwork, practicum, internships, clinical placements, research projects or student teaching will need to comply with external COVID-19 requirements set by the hosting organization
      • Mask Update (Spring 2022)- Because of the continuing challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, every student, faculty, staff member and guest at Worcester State is required to wear an appropriate mask that covers both nose and mouth at all times in buildings.  These include the blue surgical masks, WSU masks with filters distributed by the University as well as KN 95 and N 95 masks. Cloth masks and other types of face coverings and shields do NOT meet this standard.
      • If the WSU Wellness Center staff has the need to speak with a user about their mask/mask wearing- we will offer you a proper mask for your visit. 
      • A face mask means a covering made of multiple layers of cloth, fabric or other soft or permeable material, without holes, that covers the nose and mouth and surrounding areas of the lower face. A face mask should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face; allow for breathing without restriction; and either be constructed of disposable mask materials or include multiple layers of fabric that can be laundered and machine-dried without damage or change to shape. Face masks must cover the nose and mouth at all times and should remain in place. Face masks should be replaced when they become damaged, dirty, wet and/or difficult to breathe through, and should not be worn again until laundered. A face mask should be laundered by hand or machine on a daily basis.
      • NOTE: Any face mask that incorporates any type of valve (typically a raised plastic cylinder about the size of a quarter on the front side of the mask) that is designed to facilitate easy exhaling is NOT a face mask. Valves of this type permit droplet release from the mask and put others nearby at risk.
      • A recently published study by researchers at Duke University finds that bandanas and neck gaiters are not effective in reducing transmission of respiratory droplets. Until further notice, bandanas and neck gaiters should NOT be used as face masks. Proper masks (both reusable and single use) can be provided upon request.
    • While wearing a mask and exercise please be prepared that this will impact your higher intensity workouts. Be sure to progressively return to your exercise regiment, and allow for additional recover time post workout/training session. 
    • If you ever feel light headed, dizzy, or feel a shortness of breath, reduce your intensity immediately and try to relocate yourself outside to safely remove your mask. If this cannot be achieved please find the nearest user or staff member to receive additional assistance. 
    • Check out more Tips on Proper Wear of a Face Covering during Exercise, Exercise and Face Coverings: What Does the Research Say? from ACE, American Council on Exercise. 
    • How to exercise with a face mask-- and what not to do from CNET Health and Wellness
    • Researchers find face masks don't hinder breathing during exercise from MDLinx
  • Can I bring in some of my own personal equipment to use?

    • Yes. We encourage you to bring and use your own personal exercise equipment (such as cycling shoes, jump ropes, yoga mats, resistance bands, etc.) when possible.
  • What are your social distancing guidelines while in the facility?

    • Social distancing will not be enforced, but we still encourage you to maintain a safe social distance from all other users in the DeFeudis Fitness Center/Wellness Center when possible. Be sure to wait for equipment, access to cubbies, paper towels/wipes, etc. at an appropriate distance. 
  • Can I purchase a guest pass to visit the facilities?

    • No, the Wellness Center will only be allowing our students and eligible faculty/staff access at this time. Guest passes and membership opportunities will return when appropriately safe (scheduled for later in May 2022). 
  • Is personal training available?

    • Yes, personal training is available for our students and faculty/staff. Be sure to complete your Client Information Packet, turn it in at the Front Desk and purchase your sessions online to get started. For additional questions please contact dbowen2@worcester.edu. 
  • What else is Worcester State University doing to keep the Wellness Center clean and disinfected?

    • There will be increased sanitation and PPE protocols for the protection and well-being of all within the campus community, this includes disinfecting and hygiene protocols in shared spaces. In collaboration with Facilities and the staff in the Department of Athletics, we will be constantly be cleaning and disinfecting all touch points throughout the facility. The equipment within the DeFeudis Fitness Center will be rotated, not only to enhance social distancing, but to ensure each piece has been properly cleaned and disinfected by our staff. The cleanliness of all of our spaces rely on a culture of shared responsibility, please do your part. Facilities Sets Protocols for a Safe Return to Campus (Article)
  • How is Worcester State University tracking symptoms and testing?

    • Worcester State is partnering with CoVerified, a comprehensive COVID-19 platform being used by colleges and universities across New England. The CoVerified app is a one-stop shop for symptom reporting, test scheduling and reporting, and real-time alerts. CoVerified is an important piece in mitigating the risk of COVID-19 on campus and part of an overall approach to keeping students, faculty, and staff healthy during the Fall 2020 semester.  It is necessary for all members of the WSU community both on campus and remote to complete the daily symptom check. Even though you are not in person and 100% remote, we want to know that you are safe. 

    • The features of the CoVerified App include:

      - Symptom tracking and reporting so that all community members can track COVID-related symptoms daily
      - On campus testing scheduling (those requiring to test will be contacted directly)
      - Access test results
      - Log in using your WSU username and password

      How Do I Get Started with CoVerified?

    • CoVerified is available as an app for both Apple and Android (currently available as a direct download). You can also choose to not install the app and access CoVerified via a browser-based version of the platform.

      You can find mobile download links and a user guide at https://www.coverified.us/ download. CoVerified Instructions. CoVerified User App Guide.

      What do I need to do before coming to campus?

    • Students, faculty, and staff who are planning to come to campus are required to download and utilize the symptom reporting feature of CoVerified app or browser-based version. Residential students should complete this task daily before leaving their residence hall.

      CoVerified contains a clearance gating feature. The restricted access red bar will appear on the homepage of the app if you have a positive test, fail to report a symptom check, or missed a test. Please clear the restriction prior to coming to campus/leaving the residence hall room by reporting your symptoms daily. A "cleared" status will be required to participate in any related Wellness Center program or service. Any community member who has a positive test, should not come to campus or leave isolation until officially cleared to return by WSU Student Health Services. Anyone with a green bar on the homepage is clear to be on campus.

    • Asymptomatic Testing of students, faculty, and staff at Worcester State University will provide a key insight into the health and wellness of the campus community as the University progresses through the Fall semester. The dashboard will be updated each Thursday evening with the latest information from our testing partners. Check out the Worcester State University COVID-19 Testing Dashboard! Find other COVID-19 testing locations across MA HERE!
    • Vaccination Documentation: Upload your vaccination record if/when you receive your full vaccination. Through the CoVerified App 1) Under "Report" choose "Upload Vaccine Record." Enter the day you received your second dose (Moderna or Pfizer), or the single full dose (Johnson & Johnson). Be sure to upload your vaccination card as well. Students can also submit this record with their health forms to Student Health Services. Those seeking exceptions are encouraged to file the required paperwork by August 1stYou may also email a copy of your vaccination card to Student Health Services at health_services@worcester.edu or drop off a copy to the secure mailbox outside of the office at Sheehan Hall. 

      You may use VaxFinder.mass.gov to find an appointment at retail pharmacies and community health centers across the state. Student strongly encouraged to secure their vaccinations as soon as possible. 

      Additional information on the COVID-19 vaccine requirement can be found at https://www.worcester.edu/ Safe-Return/

      Any questions regarding the CoVerified app or COVID-19 testing can be directed to Paul Vernucci at pvernucci@worcester.edu or (508) 929-8908.

  • What happens if someone does not follow the new policies, procedures, or guidelines for participation and access?

    • The WSU Wellness Center staff reserves the right to refuse service/access to any user. To maintain the safest environment for all who enter the facility, the Wellness Center will operate with a zero tolerance policy. Our staff will communicate with all participants and users appropriately to assist in the educational efforts. Failure to follow any of the guidelines and policies will result in any of the following; being asked to leave for the day, suspended facility access, notice to Community Standards/student conduct, and refusal of any potential refunds if applicable.
  • What happens if there is a reported positive case/test result?

    • The WSU Wellness Center will follow the direction of the University and the Worcester Department of Public Health. Upon notification (if within 24 hours of the positive case utilizing the facility) the facility will closed for approximately 24 hours (no more) to ensure a deep cleaning/disinfecting, and to allow proper time for contact tracing and "close contact"/"shared space exposure" notifications if necessary. From WSU News, Safety Protocols Kick In Following First Positive COVID-19 Test Results (September 21, 2020).
    • WSU is following the CDC and Massachusetts Department of Public Health guidelines on isolation and quarantine protocols. MA DPH and CDC recommendations for COVID positive individuals, regardless of vaccination status, is to isolate for 5 days. An individual may end isolation after 5 days if fever free for 24 hours (without the use of fever reducing medication) and symptoms are improving. In addition, continue to wear a well fitted mask around others for an additional 5 days.

 

 Engage with our Virtual Recreation & Wellness offerings!

 

 Have additional Wellness Center specific questions? Please contact dbowen2@worcester.edu.

Massachusetts Safety Standards and Checklist: Fitness Centers and Health Clubs, view non-web version here. Protocol Summary. Protocol Checklist.

Other resources available upon request.  

              

For additional Safe Return to Campus information please click the Safe Return image above. 

 

LAST UPDATED ON 3/1/2022