WORKING IT OUT

Are gyms open in Tier 3?

GYMS reopened around England following the second national lockdown ending on December 2.

A rise in coronavirus cases has plunged many areas around the country into Tier 3 restrictions, but can you still attend your local gym?

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Can gyms open in Tier 3?

Gyms, pools, and leisure facilities can remain open under Tier 3 restrictions.

England's tiered system of regional Covid restrictions was toughened up after the national lockdown ended on December 2.

Some areas moved into a higher alert level than the one they were in before the second lockdown.

Tier 3 is the toughest set of restrictions and has been applied to "very high" risk areas.

This category means bars, cafes and restaurants must remain shut except for takeaway services, and that households cannot mix except in public places outdoors.

Tier 3 - Very High Alert - means:

All shops can stay open
You can meet with others in public outdoor places, such as beaches or parks, but only in groups of up to six people
Areas should only be at this level for 28 days then a review should take place
You should maintain social distancing from anyone not in your household or support bubble
People can't stay overnight somewhere outside of their local area unless needed for work, education or similar
Accommodation will be closed in these areas except for specific reasons
You should work from home where possible
Businesses such as hair, beauty and nail salons can stay open
People are advised against travelling out of their area
You should still wear a face covering
Public buildings such as libraries can open
Up to 15 people can attend a wedding ceremony or civil partnership
Up to 30 people can attend someone’s funeral and up to 15 people can attend someone’s wake
Gyms, pools, and leisure facilities can open

As per coronavirus-safe guidance from industry association, UK Active, gyms have taken measures such as:

Reduced capacity in gyms, while increasing space between equipment to 2m, as well as adding a one-way system.
Provided additional gym space, with individual workout areas of 3m x 3m.
Limited bookings for group exercise classes to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Reduced the number of swimmers in pools - where people swim at 5m intervals.
Fewer members are allowed in certain areas at any one time to ensure everyone can practice social distancing.
Plastic screens introduced to reception desks to protect members and staff.
Signage and clear floor markings help members to remain a safe distance apart, with staff available to provide support.

UK Active also advises:

Rigorous cleaning and disinfection procedures to minimise risk of contact transmission.
Hand wipes/sanitisers on offer at reception.
Customers should come swim or gym ready, to avoid using showers.
Users should not be working out face-to-face

If gyms are forced to close again, you will have to contact your gym to find out their policy on memberships.

During lockdown, many gym companies froze all membership payments for the duration, including The Gym Group, Pure Gym, DW Fitness First, Virgin Active, Nuffield Health and David Lloyd.

Gym fees already paid will be either refunded by most gyms or added to accounts as a credit.

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