Leisure firm delighted to being life back to centres
AFTER eight months of online classes and home workouts, residents from across Stockport, were able to return to gyms and swimming pools in person.
Life Leisure centres reopened their doors on Monday as lockdown restrictions are eased.
New government guidance also saw pubs reopen outdoors and a return for hairdressers and non-essential shops.
The reopening included the return of swimming sessions, outdoor group classes and bookable indoor gym sessions, where members will finally be able to get their hands on equipment such as rowing machines, weights and running machines.
All the centres opened on the 12th apart from Priestnall and Bramhall, which will open on June 7.
Michaela Pennington, Group CEO of Life Leisure, said: “We are excited to welcome back our members after such a long period of absence and uncertainty.
“Keeping active is vital for both our physical and mental health and our members have missed out on a whopping 22,000 activity sessions during the months we’ve been closed.
“While we’ve been able to provide online fitness classes and outdoor sessions, there will be nothing quite like getting back into the pool or working out alongside friends.”
See which businesses are declaring themselves #BackForGood near you by entering your postcode below or visit InYourArea Indoor classes continue to be unavailable until at least May 17, but centres will be able to provide outdoor and online group sessions, lifeLEISURE Kids and family classes, and a four-week FitCamp course.
All gym and swim visits must be booked online and, where possible, members are encouraged to come ‘activity ready’ to reduce the demand on changing rooms while social distancing measures remain in place.
During lockdown, Life Leisure staff have provided more than 30 live Zoom classes a week.
They have also developed programmes to help care home residents keep fit and active during lockdown and support those recovering from the virus.
Michaela added that Life Leisure are doing all they can to ensure health and safety at the centres.
She said: “We’ve looked at everything, from sanitisation stations, hands-free door opening and PPE for staff to equipment spacing, one-way systems and online booking for gym and class attendance.
“It’s all to ensure members can train, swim, dance and get the physical workout they want, safe in the knowledge that social distancing and hygiene advice is being fully observed.”
For the full timetable or to book a session go to www.lifeleisure.net/.