The end of Montana's mask requirement is bringing changes for gyms.
Yellowstone Fitness in Billings has taken down its mask requirement signs after Gov. Greg Gianforte signed an order Friday lifting the state's requirement for face masks indoors.
"I took the sign down and I'm just going to let people do what they feel like they're comfortable with, " said Don Christensen, Yellowstone Fitness owner and general manager.
Masks were needed when entering but could be taken off when working out.
Christensen said the gym says sanitation is a big part of the routine and the members still have the opportunity to distance.
"As long as we're staying clean and doing all we can I don't like the mask mandate the way it was before, the way it is now, I don't think it's going to make any difference, not in this facility," Christensen said. "It's kind of crazy. lf it was some other business, I understand keeping the mask on. But when you get to take them off anyway, why even wear them in the front door. We haven't had any outbreaks. Nobody's ever said they got it here. It's a healthy environment. We're trying to keep it that way."
Another gym will make different changes.
The YMCA in downtown Billings will also no longer require masks but is highly encouraging their use.
Masks will still be required for the youth after-school program and for the YMCA staff.
