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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Saffron Otter

Will you have to wear a face mask in the gym?

There are a few changes to the lockdown in England taking place over the weekend.

From Friday, July 24, it's law to wear a face covering in shops and supermarkets in England.

And the following day on Saturday, gyms and indoor pools are allowed to reopen again after months of being closed due to coronavrius.

But is it compulsory to wear a mask in the gym?

A spokesperson for UKactive, which represents Britain's gyms and leisure centres, said it won't be mandatory.

They told MailOnline: "We note the government’s decision on face coverings on shops and public transport where it is harder to keep social distancing in place.

"However, we also support the government’s consideration that there need to be practical requirements for each sector.

"As such, when it comes to gyms and leisure centres, the appropriate mitigation measures will be in place to make sure that social distancing remains.

"Therefore we would not expect face coverings to become mandatory in our facilities."

The government's online guidance only states that face masks are required on public transport, and in shops and supermarkets from July 24.

However, it adds: "You are also strongly encouraged to wear a face covering in other enclosed public spaces where social distancing may be difficult and where you come into contact with people you do not normally meet."

Therefore in short, you won't need to wear a mask in your gym, and social distancing measures will be in place. But it could be worth wearing one while queuing up to enter or in the changing rooms before getting into gym gear.

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