Gyms across the region are gearing up to re-open on Monday after being forced to close by coronavirus restrictions.
Mark Gallagher, left, can’t wait to welcome clients back through the doors of Synergy Performance in Heathhall.
He said: “It’s been a tough year for everyone and having to close the gym for nine months out of the last 13 is pretty crazy when you think about it.
“For us to be able to open back up on Monday still alive and kicking is simply down to the fact we have such a loyal group of members.
“Without their support over the last year, it just wouldn’t be happening.
“I can’t wait to have everyone in the gym again and getting back to doing what I love and coaching people face-to-face.
“It’s been a long time coming but I’m delighted we’re getting back to a bit of normality and I really hope it continues and the situation keeps improving.
“As a business, we will ensure we follow the guidelines set out by the government to maximise the safety of our members.
“I’m looking forward to seeing them all again next week after what has been a tough time for everybody.”
It is a similar story for Anne Armstrong of AA Fitness in Dumfries.
She said: “It’s been a long lockdown and I think this second one has been a lot harder.
“We’ve been doing classes on Zoom and in recent weeks we’ve been doing outdoor classes. I think for some of the children the second lockdown has had a real impact. I’ve noticed a change in some of them. Some of them are a bit withdrawn. I can’t wait to get back inside.
“It’s been okay being outdoors but I can’t wait to get back in and get into some kind of normality. I’m hoping in time the kids will be more outgoing and back to their normal, bubbly selves. I’m here for them.”
