Wishaw gym owners have criticised the closure of their facilities as ‘heart-breaking’ and ‘nonsensical’.
The fitness community has argued that gyms are invaluable resources that should be used to combat coronavirus.
Andrew McGee, from SGF Gym, said: “It’s really disappointing, we are essential.”
Scott Allan, owner of Rivals Gym, said: “We are part of the solution not the problem.
“Gym owners argue that they should be utilised as part of the cure instead of being chastised as part of the problem.”
The World Health Organisation (WHO) promote regular physical activity for the body and mind, throughout the pandemic.
The physical benefits of exercise include reduced risk of heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, high blood pressure, and obesity.
All of which, the NHS state, put people at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill from Covid-19.
Scott continued: “Exercise boosts your immune system, which is exactly what you need to fight the virus.”
Martin Lennox, owner of Hostile Strength, said: “It’s nonsensical that during a global health pandemic, health and fitness isn’t classed as essential.
“The government has repeatedly said that a fit and healthy person is less likely to get hit hard by Covid-19.
“Going to the gym is a lot of peoples only means of staying physically and mentally strong.
“So, it’s no surprise that mental ill-health is on the rise.”
The Royal College of Psychiatrists have warned of a mental health crisis as a result of lockdown rules.
Forty three per cent of psychiatrists have reported an increase in urgent and emergency cases linked to Covid-19 restrictions.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) state that regular physical exercise improves mental health and overall feelings of wellbeing.
Scott explained: “Exercise increases your levels of: Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin, Endorphins.
“All of which boost happiness, wellbeing, and motivation, reduce stress and pain, and increase trust and social bonding.
“And there’s a big social aspect to training: sometimes the only time our members come out the house is to come to a training session.
“It’s heart-breaking for everyone in the gym sector.
“It feels like I’ve been forced to turn my back on my members.
“In the period that we were allowed to open we had just over 4400 attendees, and not one single case of
Covid-19.”
