Joy as gyms bounce back
EMYLIE HOWIE
Gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools in Scotland are to reopen on Monday.
Last Thursday, Nicola Sturgeon said gyms in Scotland could reopen.
The First Minister confirmed that Scotland will remain in phase three of lockdown restrictions for the time being, with the virus still considered a “threat”to society.
But she had some good news for fitness fans – gyms in Scotland will reopen ahead of schedule as of August 31, with strict hygiene measures in place. Contact team sports resumed outdoors as of August 24.
The Scottish Government and sportscotland are continuing to work with Scottish Governing Bodies of Sport (SGBs) and physical activity organisations to develop detailed plans for a variety of sports which can now welcome back more participants.
Public health and wellbeing remains the priority.
Key dates and changes include: From August 24:
Adult outdoor contact sports training and competition in an organised setting can resume. Maximum numbers in any one session must be agreed by SGBs and sportscotland.
Outdoor group coaching for organised sports and leisure including aerobics and fitness classes can take place for a maximum of 30 people at one time. From August 31:
Indoor sport and leisure facilities can open if Scottish Government COVID-19 guidance is fully implemented.
This includes indoor non-contact and contact sport training and competition activities for children up to and including 11 years of age and indoor non-contact sport training and competition activities for those 12 years and older where physical distancing is maintained.
Minister for Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing, Joe FitzPatrick said:“The announcement will have been welcomed by the many people who have greatly missed being able to use gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools, with all the health and wellbeing benefits those activities bring.
“These past months have been very financially difficult for many within the sector, who have shown great patience and support by remaining closed in order to help prevent further spreading of the virus.
“The Scottish Government is working closely with the sector to ensure that facilities are prepared for reopening safely and customers have the confidence to return.