Exercises in Covid safety - new rules for gym-goers

VISITORS to newly reopened leisure centres and gyms are being made aware of new rules in place.

Equipment such as squat racks, dumbbells and running machines are available to use again for the first time since gyms were forced to close their doors on January 5.

People from different households must not deliberately mix in gyms and indoor swimming pools as the indoor mixing rule is yet to be lifted.

Social distancing is still in place and until May 17 you are not allowed to mix indoors with anybody outside your household.

Facilities and indoor equipment will be spaced apart and the rule of two metre distance remains, along with extra cleaning procedures.

But, there is one new rule that Leicestershire swimmers should be aware of.

According to Hood Park leisure centre, in Ashby, all swimmers should arrive “beach ready”.

The website reads: “Where possible, we ask swimmers to arrive for their session beach ready. This will avoid the need to use the changing rooms prior to their session.”

Other safety measures will be in place and public swims will be limited to 50 minutes to allow cleaning of changing facilities.

Continued reviews will take place to update swimmers but changing facilities will not be available and spectators will not be permitted.

It adds: “Public swimming will operate with a reduced bather load. Capacity will be based on Swim England guidance and will be continually reviewed.

“During public/family swimming sessions lanes will not be available.”

Customers will be encouraged to scan NHS QR code posters or provide their name and contact details and face coverings should be worn when not taking part in an activity

Leisure centres are also asking customers, who are attending a booked activity, not to arrive earlier than five minutes before their slot.