A YORK gym has reopened for outdoor fitness.

David Lloyd York, in Hull Road, reopened today (March 29) for outdoor group exercise, personal training, tennis and swimming.

The club says its open air spaces will allow members to safely take part in a range of outdoor activities, all strictly following Government guidelines, offering activities which improve strength, flexibility, mobility and support a healthy immune system.

There will be a programme of up to 85 group exercise classes a week – from yoga, Pilates, and group cycling classes to bootcamp style workouts. The majority of outdoor classes will take place under open sided marquees and giant umbrellas to shelter members from the elements.

Glenn Earlam, CEO David Lloyd Clubs said: “We’re delighted to be able to reopen for outdoor exercise. Our outdoor clubs in Scotland and Wales have proved to be very popular and our members have told us how much they have missed their clubs in England so we know that this move will mean a lot to them.

"We’ve shown that we can operate safely, but despite this, fitness and leisure centres have been closed for the best part of nine months in the last year. With very little income in the last year, we desperately need more financial support from the Government. Whilst we appreciate the assistance that we have received while we have been closed, the Government’s budget earlier this month offered our industry little comfort for the future.

"Our sector will play an important part in the nation’s recovery from the pandemic. These last 12 months have taught us all to prioritise our health, and gyms have an essential role to play in getting the nation back on its feet. Exercise strengthens the immune system, protecting against viruses such as flu and Covid-19 and helps combat obesity and diabetes, which are significant mortality factors.

“Exercise also supports mental wellbeing and having a safe space where people can go to away from home and take part in activities with others as part of a positive and supportive community is vitally important.”