Finaghy gym spins back into action as relaxed restrictions permit fitness fanatics to work out in open air
BELFAST fitness fanatics are enjoying an exercise boost in the fresh air with the opening of a new outdoor gym.
The new fitness classes, which abide by Covid-19 social distancing rules, were rolled out at Gymco Finaghy last week, and the owner said they are already proving to be a huge hit with members.
Gymco operates two gyms, one in south Belfast and the other at Cityside Retail & Leisure Park.
While gyms have been closed since mid-march, with no definite date on when they can reopen, outdoor exercise was permitted in the latest easing of restrictions as the risk of transmitting the coronavirus is lower outdoors.
Owner David Conlon said the firm was delighted to be able to allow people to exercise once again, although in limited numbers.
Since Monday of last week, a total of 35 classes are being offered seven days a week.
They include blast, conditioning and spin — which are all done safely and in line with the government guidelines.
David said he’s pleased with how it’s all going so far.
“Once the government allowed six people to train and socialise together, we put up a temporary marquee up to allow some of our members to return.
“The reaction has been good with every class more or less full.
“We are running classes Monday right through to Sunday and 90% of them have been filled.
“We are finding that it starts off busier at the beginning of the week and then tapers off towards the weekend.”
He continued: “Our classes start at 6.30am for the first three hours, followed by a break and then a lunchtime class and another two in the evening.
“Everyone just wants to get back to getting their quick fix to clear their head and have some sense of normality back in their lives.”
David says while Gymco are pleased to have members back in a limited capacity, he’s hoping to hear something soon from Stormont ministers on when the firm’s two indoor gyms can reopen.
“We were hoping to hear something earlier this week when they made the announcement about the hospitality industry but there was no mention of gyms.
“There has been some talk of July 20, but hopefully there will be movement on that soon.
“In the meantime we’ll just have to continue being creative and keep people’s minds ticking over with training to keep them fit and healthy.”