Racehorses can be exercised during the coronavirus lockdown as long as strict social distancing is applied, the National Trainers Federation has said.
New measures were announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday to try and stop the spread of coronavirus, which 6,650 UK residents have tested positive for.
People were told they must stay at home at all times, until they require basic shopping necessities and exercise, once a day.
There are also exemptions for caring for the vulnerable and critical jobs.
NTF chief executive Rupert Arnold clarified the situation for the racing industry and said: "Within minutes of the Prime Minister's announcement of strict rules on the movement of people from 9pm tonight, trainers began asking us whether horses could be exercised tomorrow.
"We have already sent a message to the industry Covid Group pointing out that in all European racing jurisdictions where severe restrictions on movement have already been implemented, racehorses are continuing to be exercised.
"Our advice to you is therefore to continue getting horses out on the gallops and other exercise areas, while observing the distancing rules with the utmost discipline."
Trainers were told only people bringing vital supplies should be allowed to visit yards, while they were told the highest standards must be in force during the global pandemic.
"Tell your staff that failure to observe the rules is a disciplinary offence," Arnold added.
"Make sure you, as their employer, lead by example and that all the necessary equipment and advice is available in the yard for them to wash and dry hands, clean surfaces and keep at least two metres apart."
