We have it backward ... pubs are open but not gyms
Former Reformer reporter Marc McLean is a weight training coach and author of the Strength Training 101 book series. Here he shares his views on delaying the reopening of gym facilities.
It’s good to see an important question being asked that’s basically had my brain on a treadmill for weeks.
Why are gyms still closed when pubs have been allowed to reopen?” It makes no sense. In Scotland we definitely have it backwards. Boozing: bad for your health. Gym/fitness centres: good for your health (physical and mental).
Our First Minister has been at great pains to explain that the extreme lockdown measures are all about putting lives and people’s health first.
By continuing this unnecessary delay to the reopening of gyms, people are being robbed of the opportunity to improve their physical and mental health, while strengthening their bodies and immune defences.
At the beginning of lockdown, I interviewed Dr James Turner and Dr James Campbell, professors at the Department of Health at Bath University, who are experts in exercise physiology and immunobiology.
We all know that regular exercise is good for the immune system and maintaining a healthy body.
But Dr Turner went even further, busting the myth that excessive exercise could hamper immunity, saying:“There’s a substantial body of research that shows exercise actually benefits our immune system.”
Dr Campbell added that regular exercise will always have a “tremendously positive effect on our health and wellbeing”.
If public health is indeed a top priority for the Scottish Government, then why are gyms still closed?
We are fortunate to have fantastic facilities across South Lanarkshire .
Places like Energie Fitness, Eastfield Lifestyle Gym, Durie’s Boxing Club, Transform Fitness, Hamilton Water Palace Base Fitness & Crossfit and Castlemilk Pool.
In a deprived area where a higher than average number of people struggle with mental health issues and addiction, these can be a lifesaver.
I’m delighted pubs and restaurants have reopened, it’s been a huge boost for people to be able to socialise again and stay as balanced as possible following some very testing months.
However, the priorities are all wrong. It should have been gyms first, pubs second – or at least have them both open at the same time.