Outdoor fitness classes for up to six adults a time are to be rolled out across David Lloyd health clubs in the UK.
The chain, which has more than 100 clubs throughout the country, said an expanded range of outdoor activities that meet social distancing guidelines will be introduced at 50 of its fitness centres during the coming days.
Up to 90 classes – ranging from “boot camp-style” workouts to Pilates and yoga – will be available each week, taking place around the clubs’ external pools, garden areas and tennis courts.
Once clubs are allowed to reopen, the company said 80 per cent of its centres will also operate gym extensions located in its indoor tennis courts, with equipment spaced well apart to meet social distancing measures.
Glenn Earlam, chief executive of David Lloyd Leisure, said: “Obviously the recent good weather makes it a great time to launch, but none of these new activities are weather dependent, and we plan to continue running them into the future.
“More and more exercise is going outside and we firmly believe the ‘new normal’ in exercising will be all about embracing the great outdoors.”
Mr Earlham said while the outdoor activities will initially be for up to six people, they have been designed to work for larger groups should the Government permit it.
The chain said it had doubled the number of its cleaning staff and introduced screening in its reception and cafe areas.
Under the latest Government guidance, gyms and swimming pools in England can now be used to train elite athletes, but remain closed to the general public.
Mr Earlham said the company was “well ahead” with its planning to reopen all of its facilities – including gyms – once the Government rules change.
