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Gyms and fitness centres permitted to reopen in July

Health Protection Agency (HPA) has permitted gyms and fitness centres to reopen in July, with special precautions in place.

HPA announced gyms and fitness centres can resume operations from July, while ensuring adherence to the guidelines of the agency. In this regard, the facilities are required to set a maximum number of customers allowed at the same time, and allocate a schedule accordingly. Service hours of sessions must be allocated to prevent overcrowding and to reduce contact between people. Gyms are also required to ensure a minimum distance of three feet between individuals using the facilities.

Furthermore, the HPA guideline states all safety information and instructions must be placed in a location visible for all customers using the gym or the fitness centre. All equipment must be cleaned and disinfected after each session. Hand washing facilities and sanitisers must be available for use at the facility.

The guideline also instructs gyms to reduce cash transactions in order to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Gyms have also been instructed not to conduct group classes if a minimum distance of three feet between individuals cannot be maintained. Gyms and fitness centres have been closed since March 29 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.