DRD Intensifies Gym Oversight, Cites safety Concerns & Regulatory Updates
The Puerto Rico Department of Recreation and Sports (DRD) is increasing its scrutiny of gyms across the island, focusing on compliance with regulations regarding qualified personnel and safety standards.Secretary Ray Vázquez Muñiz announced the initiative following a series of 80 visits to fitness facilities.
The impetus for the increased oversight stemmed from feedback received during public consultations, including suggestions related to scheduling and the use of technology and mobile applications within gyms. Vázquez Muñiz stated the DRD will amend existing regulations to reflect these advancements and address current needs.
During the inspections, the DRD found a important level of non-compliance. According to Vázquez Muñiz, approximately 80% of the gyms visited exhibited at least one regulatory breach. He urged gym-goers to proactively request documentation verifying the credentials of trainers and staff.
“You have to defend yourself,” Vázquez Muñiz emphasized, highlighting the importance of ensuring trainers possess valid licenses – officially termed “physical aptitude” certifications - issued by the DRD. he warned of the significant risk of injury when working with unlicensed coaches, comparing the verification process to confirming a doctor’s credentials. These certifications require passing a revalidation exam.
The Secretary acknowledged a past lack of consistent enforcement by the DRD and admitted he was previously unaware of the existence of the Sports Security Commission, despite his background as a sports journalist. He has since prioritized reactivating the commission, which had been “half inoperative.” The commission has already begun addressing safety concerns, such as a recent complaint regarding a volleyball tournament where minors were playing matches outdoors during peak heat hours.
Currently, the DRD is taking an approach of guidance rather than immediate fines. Gyms identified with violations are given a 60-day period to correct deficiencies, with the threat of fines for continued non-compliance.
in related news, Vázquez Muñiz announced that eight municipalities – Guayama, Humacao, Isabela, Las Piedras, barranquitas, Aguas Buenas, and Naranjito - have received approval for funding thru the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a program administered by the U.S. Department of the Interior. This is a matching fund, requiring municipalities to contribute an equal amount to projects focused on land and water conservation. Such as, a $1 million project would receive $500,000 from the fund and $500,000 from the municipality.