Exercise classes are returning to leisure centres in Southwark from next week as the next stage of lockdown easing begins.
Indoor group exercise has been given the greenlight to start up again from Monday, May 17.
Operator Everyone Active, which runs Camberwell Leisure Centre; Dulwich Leisure Centre; The Castle; Peckham Pulse; Seven Islands; Surrey Docks Fitness and Watersports and Southwark Athletics Centre says its ‘strict operational measures’ will remain in place to keep gym-goers safe. Safety measures include smaller class sizes to ensure social distancing.
Mark Basker, regional contract manager at Everyone Active, said: “We are delighted to be able to safely resume group exercise classes in our centres.
“Aside from the obvious physical benefits, this will be a huge boost for mental health and wellbeing in Southwark and comes at an apt time following the start of Mental Health Awareness Week.
“Many of our customers thrive on the social element of exercise, not just for motivational reasons but also because they enjoy seeing friendly faces in a familiar environment.
“With social contact having been limited over the past year, the ability to mix safely with other members of the community will be appreciated by many.
“The importance of mental wellbeing is proving increasingly resonant with the public and customers can reintroduce group exercise to their fitness regime in the knowledge they are addressing the needs of body and mind.”
Customers wishing to attend group exercise classes are required to book in advance via the Everyone Active website or mobile app.