It is 'not expected' that people will be required to face masks at gyms and fitness centres when they reopen, UK Active has said.
With sports centres in England set to open from Saturday 25 July, companies are introducing measures to keep members safe and socially distanced.
But while it will soon be compulsory for people to wear face coverings in shops and supermarkets, fitness bosses are expecting gyms to be exempt from the new rules.
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Speaking about the upcoming reopening, UK Active - a representative body for the fitness industry - has waved away suggestions that masks will be compulsory for gym goers.
In a statement, UK Active said: "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.
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"Therefore we would not expect face coverings to become mandatory in our facilities."
Fitness centre chain David Lloyd has also advised that it will not expect members to wear masks, with its website stating: "Currently you don't need to wear a mask when using our gym facilities. You are, of course, welcome to do so if you would be more comfortable wearing one."
Government guidelines for England urge people to wear masks when in 'enclosed spaces', but no official statement has been released regarding gyms.
Current advice states: "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."
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Last month (June), PureGym released a video to prepare members for the changes they can expect to see when it's back up and running.
The video was shared on Facebook, with the caption: "We're not open yet, but we're ready! At PureGym, we've always put our members first. That's why we're committed to providing you with a cleaner, safer place to train and you'll still find everything you need for a great workout.
"When the government confirms we can reopen our gyms, we'll be ready to welcome you back in the gym.
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"We'll be in touch with all of our members when our gyms start to reopen, but for now, take a look at what you can expect when you return."
The video explains the social distancing measures that will be taken in gyms to make sure people stay safe while they work out.
Included in the new steps are extensive and frequent cleaning of all equipment and machines by staff, although masks are not mentioned.
LADbible has contacted UK Active and Number 10 for a comment.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: UK News, Coronavirus, Health