Fitness instructors will be able to hold classes outside

Saturday 20 February 2021

The guidelines on whether or not personal trainers can hold classes outside during Stage 1 of our exit from lockdown have been amended.

PT’s were left trying to understand the difference between five people exercising outside, and one trainer and four clients doing the same thing.

Initially, all client-facing 'non-essential' businesses were unable to start working in Stage 1, including fitness instructors. 

This, coupled with five people being able to exercise together, socially distanced, for a maximum of four hours, led to backlash from those who make a living in the industry. 

The guidelines have now been changed and explicitly state that personal trainers and fitness instructors can work again from Monday.

Pictured: Personal trainers and fitness instructors can hold sessions with a maximum of four people, as long as social distance guidelines are adhered to.

Several PT's got in contact with Express, questioning why some sporting activities were permitted, while the same activities overseen by a trainer were not. 

“Socially distanced exercise with another person is safe, but outdoor one to one ‘paid for’ training is not – the only difference being the exchange of money, which doesn’t even need to physically take place," business owner Jon Le Tocq said to Express before the guidelines were amended. 

“So many people are struggling massively and having a structured, programmed fitness routine helps them manage their mind and stay grounded. The fitness industry is as big as it is because people need the support."