Home Leisure Time Duncan Bannatyne welcomes re-opening of gyms and health clubs to boost physical...

Duncan Bannatyne welcomes re-opening of gyms and health clubs to boost physical and mental wellbeing

Duncan Bannatyne has welcomed the Government decision to allow gyms and health clubs to re-open across England after the 2nd December.

He had written to all MPs in areas in which he operates a health club to put the case for the safe opening of gyms and health clubs based on irrefutable data and carefully developed and proven social distancing and hygiene procedures.

Mr Bannatyne firmly believes, based on many years in the sector and significant feedback from members, that closing health clubs has had a detrimental effect on both physical and mental health.

To support people wanting to join, flexible options are available including variable membership lengths from one month and a deferred payment facility.


Former members who wish to re-join will have their original membership fee honoured, together with other incentives.

Duncan Bannatyne said: “I am pleased that the Prime Minister has realised the value of the fitness sector in fighting this awful virus.

“It is vitally important, both for the nation’s health and the economy. In the responses from MPs I was gratified that they understood that the majority of health clubs could reopen again safely and that it was essential to do so.

“A lot of hard work went on behind the scenes at the Bannatyne health clubs during the first lockdown to ensure that our large and spacious facilities, which are conducive to social distancing, were safe for members and staff. It was very frustrating for everyone when we were forced to closed again, despite the significant investment in safety and data showing that health clubs are one of the safest places to be.

“Most of our members have been eager to use our health clubs throughout the pandemic and I am delighted to be welcoming them back. For those who didn’t feel able to remain as members, or for anyone who wants to join, my team has put in place a number of different options to enable as many people as possible to boost their fitness and wellbeing.”