Coronavirus Update — Back to Class!

Staying active is a vital weapon against COVID-19, which is why people are encouraged to exercise. Physical activity also plays a vital role in both our physical and mental wellbeing.

While returning to face-to-face classes does pose a risk of transmission of the virus, we will do our best to mitigate the risk as much as possible. Below are some of the things we are doing to mitigate risk. You can request our full risk assessments for each venue if you would like further information.

We will also continue a Zoom class for those who do not feel ready to return to class.

Why return to class?

These are some of the reasons for making the decision to return to class:

• The number of confirmed cases has reduced locally and restrictions are easing.
• The vaccine role-out means that a number of participants will have received a vaccination when they return.
• For some, the space and technological requirements of virtual classes are an obstacle. Others simply do not like the virtual platform.
• Many people have expressed a preference for face-to-face classes.

Keeping us safe

The short version

Here’s a summary of how we can work together to reduce the spread:

• Don’t attend if you have COVID-19 symptoms.
• Venues and equipment will be cleaned and ventilated regularly.
• Bring your own mat.
• Observe social distancing.
• Sanitise hands and wear masks when entering and leaving.

The long version

And now for the long list of rules and regulations that will be in place to keep us as safe as possible:

• People must not attend if:
  • they have symptoms that may be caused by COVID-19, are waiting for a test or have received a positive COVID-19 test result (whether or not they have symptoms)
  • They currently live in the same household as someone with COVID-19 symptoms, or with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
  • For any of the above people must follow the government guidelines regarding isolating, testing etc.
• The instructor will arrive at each venue early to check cleanliness, and make sure regularly used surfaces are cleaned before, during, and after hire. They will also open external doors to ventilate the room prior to the start and the door will be kept open during the class.
• Attendees must arrive at the class start time and bring their own mat and towel. They can also bring their own equipment (small weights, bands, and circles). Equipment provided by the instructor is not to be shared and will be cleaned before and after the session.
• Attendees to scan the NHS track and trace QR code when entering hall.
• Everyone should use hand sanitiser provided when entering and exiting the building.
• Attendees must comply with social distancing and use the one-way system.
• Attendees must wear face masks when entering and exiting building, and when using toilets.
• Clients are not required to wear a face mask while exercising unless they wish to.
• Kitchen and changing rooms not to be used. Only one person in the toilets at one time.
• There will be a maximum of 12 class attendees and mats will be positioned 2 metres apart.
• If anyone gets symptoms during class, make the instructor aware.
• As a physiotherapist teaching Pilates, there may be times I am required to come closer than 2 metres distance. A full risk assessment for this will be carried out first, and in these instances I will wear full PPE required (FM, gloves and apron) and I will ask that the participant wears a face covering.