When are gyms reopening in the UK?
STRICT coronavirus lockdown rules are being lifted for England’s sports-lovers and fitness fanatics.
PM Boris Johnson has set out the details of what restrictions will be in place post-lockdown.
When are gyms reopening in the UK?
The PM said that shops, gyms, personal care businesses and leisure facilities will be allowed to reopen from December 2.
A four-week lockdown in England ends on that day.
Boris Johnson has confirmed that the government will lift the stay-at-home instruction introduced early November to curb a new surge in coronavirus infections.
Johnson also confirmed that England will return to a regional tier system when the second lockdown lifts.
But details of which areas will be in which tiers will not be set out until Thursday, November 26.
Gyms and swimming pools can reopen everywhere, though restrictions vary across the tiers for classes and organised adult sport.
Do I need to wear a mask in the gym?
According to Puregym, in England, following the latest advice from the Government, members are encouraged to wear a suitable face covering while in the gym – except when exercising.
Gymgoers are required to wear a face covering when entering the gym, in communal areas and changing rooms, and when moving around the gym.
This can be removed during exercise.
What are the coronavirus measures in place for gyms?
The health and well-being of members and team members “is our number one priority,” says David Lloyd.
The sports, health and leisure firm says it’s following coronavirus-safe guidance from industry association, UK Active.
David Lloyd says it has:
- Reduced capacity in gyms, while increasing space between equipment to 2m, as well as adding a one-way system.
- Provided additional gym space, with individual workout areas of 3m x 3m.
- Limited bookings for group exercise classes to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
- Reduced the number of swimmers in pools – where people swim at 5m intervals.
- Fewer members are allowed in certain areas at any one time to ensure everyone can practice social distancing.
- Plastic screens introduced to reception desks to protect members and staff.
- Signage and clear floor markings help members to remain a safe distance apart, with staff available to provide support.
UK Active also advises:
- Rigorous cleaning and disinfection procedures to minimise risk of contact transmission.
- Hand wipes/sanitisers on offer at reception.
- Customers should come swim or gym ready, to avoid using showers.
- Users should not be working out face-to-face
Will I be able to renew my gym membership if I cancelled?
Many gym companies froze all membership payments for the duration of the first and/or second lockdown, including The Gym Group, Pure Gym, DW Fitness First, Virgin Active, Nuffield Health and David Lloyd.
The latter says on its website: “If our clubs are closed due to a local or national lockdown, we will freeze your membership for the period we are closed.”
It’s a good idea to contact your gym to find out its policy on memberships in light of the mandatory shut-downs.
Gym fees already paid will be either refunded by most gyms or added to accounts as a credit.
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