Stockport’s Life Leisure has reopened its doors to fitness fans. Following the Government’s announcement that it is now safe to reopen gyms and swimming pools, the fitness provider has confirmed its Stockport-based centres are open.

This will include the return of swimming sessions, outdoor group classes and bookable indoor gym sessions, where members will finally be able to get their hands on equipment such as rowing machines, weights and running machines.

Michaela Pennington, Group CEO of Life Leisure, said: “We are excited to welcome back our members after such a long period of absence and uncertainty.

“Keeping active is vital for both our physical and mental health and our members have missed out on a whopping 22,000 activity sessions during the months we’ve been closed.

“While we’ve been able to provide online fitness classes and outdoor sessions, there will be nothing quite like getting back into the pool or working out alongside friends.”

All centres across Stockport will reopen on April 12 apart from Priestnall and Bramhall, which will open on June 7. While Dialstone is also scheduled to reopen on June 7, it is hoped it will be able to open its doors sooner, please check the website for details.

While indoor classes continue to be unavailable until at least May 17, centres will be able to provide outdoor and online group sessions, lifeLEISURE Kids and family classes, and a four-week FitCamp course.

All gym and swim visits must be booked online, and where possible, members are encouraged to come ‘activity ready’ to reduce the demand on changing rooms while social distancing measures remain in place.

Michaela added: “We’ve looked at everything, from sanitisation stations, hands-free door opening and PPE for staff to equipment spacing, one-way systems and online booking for gym and class attendance – all to ensure members can train, swim, dance and get the physical workout they want, safe in the knowledge that social distancing and hygiene advice is being fully observed.”