From Saturday 25 July, indoor facilities such as gyms, leisure centres and pools will be allowed to reopen, provided operators follow government guidelines. All sports must adhere to social distancing throughout warm-ups and avoid equipment sharing. The Government has stated that “with caution and care, risks can be reduced, and the benefits of team sport enjoyed fully again”. The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Oliver Dowden, announced that: indoor gyms, leisure facilities and swimming pools will be able to reopen from 25 July outdoor pools and cricket can begin this coming weekend the return of team sports will be facilitated by the relevant national governing body having their own sport-specific guidance approved by government.

It’s critical that those who’ve been impacted the most by the lockdown are supported to get active as restrictions are eased. The Childhood Trust reported that the social distancing measures enforced on children because of COVID-19 are likely to increase the risk of depression and anxiety, as well as possible post-traumatic stress.

Children, young people and families returning to regular exercise will benefit not only physically but also increase their mental wellbeing, particularly after the struggles of lockdown and being confined to homes.

SportInspired will be adhering to Government regulations by restructuring our large ‘multi-sport festivals’ to smaller “Try Me Sessions” delivered in schools to showcase six different exhilarating sports for children to try out in a safe way.

“For those living in the UK’s most deprived communities, covid19 propelled their already challenging circumstances into a much bleaker space. The easing of restrictions on recreational sport is an important step forward in providing people with the opportunity to return to a healthy and happy lifestyle. It is critical that those who need it most are encouraged and supported to get active.”

Richard Raynes, CEO of SportInspired