As we approach mid-February, it is somewhat difficult to believe that society has lived under the shadow of COVID-19 for a little over two years. The recent outbreak of the Omicron variant has prompted a new wave of restrictions, particularly on gyms and other recreational facilities. While it is undoubtedly the government's duty to keep citizens safe, are these new measures truly effective? What are their advantages and disadvantages?

First of all, let us clarify what the new measures entail. According to Global News, "gyms, yoga and dance studios" were ordered to close in December and only reopened in mid-January. Under current restrictions, as stated on the provincial government's website, spaces like gyms or dance studios must operate on a basis of one person per every 7 square meters of floor space. Furthermore, swimming pools are allowed 50% capacity and adult fitness classes or groups can enroll 25 participants at most. The restriction guidelines also highly recommend wearing masks during strenuous physical activities and mandate it at all other times. Entry to any recreational facility is contingent on presenting a proof of vaccination QR code.

In terms of the positives, the new provincial restrictions are well-intentioned and appear to be mostly reasonable. The QR code requirement for entry to any public space is perhaps the most important aspect of these guidelines. According to Global News, around 84% of Canadians are fully vaccinated, so this should not present an intolerable burden for the average, city-dwelling citizen where the guidelines are most relevant. Restrictions regarding maximum capacity also appear to be well-grounded and based on existing social distancing guidelines. All in all, these guidelines seem to demonstrate the right balance between keeping people safe and attempting to return to normalcy.

Does that mean everything is fine? Surely there is no need to examine them any further, right? Well, not quite. Let us start from the most obviously flawed part of the new guidelines: the suggestion to wear face masks even while engaged in strenuous physical