Almost two weeks after the Texas economy began to reopen from a month-long shutdown, local gym owners in San Marcos, Buda and Kyle prepare to open their doors on May 18.

The awaited resurgence of gyms comes after Gov. Greg Abbott issued a new executive order May 6. In the order, gyms, manufacturing facilities and offices are allowed to reopen at 25% occupancy with some restrictions. Gyms are required to keep locker rooms and shower facilities closed.

Emily and Hom Weusi, owners of Str8 Training San Marcos, are among some of the local gym owners planning to reopen with new safety precautions in place.

“We decided to open our gym... so that those who want to resume in-person physical activity can do so, in a comfortable environment and at a safe distance,” Emily said.

Str8 Training San Marcos will limit workout sessions to 90 minutes per person and allow only 20 people at a time. In addition, cleaning supplies will be provided to wipe down equipment. Gym-goers are also encouraged to use their best judgment if they’re feeling sick.

“We will be taking extra sanitary precautions to ensure safety. Str8 Training will resume its personal training, group training and fitness classes,” Emily said.

Laura Smith, owner of CustomFitt in Buda said she is also planning to reopen her personal studio on May 18 and is excited to see her clients face-to-face again.

“I feel confident that my facility is as sterile as it possibly can be,” Smith said. “It’s not your typical gym. I am the only one handling the equipment other than my clients and that’s how I know the sterility is up to me.”

Smith said she will be personally sanitizing “every single piece of equipment” that is used as a way to ensure safety. In addition, she will also be providing gloves to all her clients.

“If I were in a situation where folks were using the equipment without any supervision, I would not feel comfortable doing that at all,” Smith said, while noting that she would be present at all times while clients were at her studio.

Other popular gyms in the area like Texas Health & Racquet Club, Blu Edge Fitness and Gold’s Gym have announced through social channels that they will also be opening May 18.

Orangetheory Fitness in San Marcos announced on Facebook it will be reopening May 23, while the Kyle location will be opening May 22.