A survey of more than 31,000 gym users has shown that over two-thirds (68%) would be confident to return to their local health club in June or July if the correct safety measures are in place.
The Bannatyne Group conducted the survey of its members after executive chairman, Duncan Bannatyne OBE, wrote to local MPs of constituencies which have a Bannatyne Health Club to encourage the government to publish an indicative date for the re-opening of health clubs.
Along with support for the reopening of clubs, the survey highlighted several measures that would give gym-goers confidence to return.
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-92% agreed that increased hand hygiene was a basic requirement
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-76% saw social distancing measures in club as a basic requirement
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-73% believed a cashless system to avoid contact was a basic requirement
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-78% said increased signage about social distancing and hygiene procedures was a basic requirement
In contrast, only 10% would see temperature testing as an issue for them as a condition of entry.
All of the measures, including cashless systems, signage and social distancing measures are being implemented across the Bannatyne health clubs, ensuring that reopening can happen as soon as government guidance allows it.
Duncan Bannatyne OBE, executive chairman of the Bannatyne Group, said: “The survey demonstrates that a significant number of our members have the confidence to return to their health club sooner rather than later.
“Of course, it will be a different experience because we have worked hard during the lockdown to ensure our clubs are safe for our members and staff to return when they are able.
“We have listened to what our members have told us and followed uk-active guidelines and put in place measures to make our clubs as safe as possible for members and staff.
“There’s clearly an appetite for health clubs to reopen and I hope that we can welcome members back in the very near future.”