LOUISVILLE, Ky. — One of the largest fitness chains in Kentucky, Planet Fitness, announced a new mask requirement beginning August 1. 

Starting in August guests must wear a face covering the entire time while inside Planet Fitness facilities. Previously members and guests were not required to wear a face mask while working out. Staff members at Planet Fitness have been required to wear a face-covering since reopening on June 1. On Monday Planet Fitness CEO Chris Rondeau released a statement which said in part, 

"Gyms are part of the solution and a key element of the healthcare delivery system, providing much-needed access for people to exercise and stay healthy. Given our leadership position within the industry, we believe it's our responsibility to further protect our members, employees, and communities so that we can all safely focus on our health, which is more important now than ever before.”

Rondeau also said Monday, "As we continue to face the COVID-19 pandemic, amid an ongoing global health crisis, wellness has never been as essential to our collective community as it is today.”