County Durham residents can return to their indoor fitness classes from Monday (17 May).

Durham County Council is restarting its indoor fitness programme, in line with Step 3 of the government’s roadmap, following the reopening of its gyms and swimming pools last month.

The new timetable, which includes the return of aqua classes, features new introductory classes to support people back into exercise who might not have been as active during lockdown.

Indoor classes will be on offer alongside the council’s seasonal outdoor class programme.

All classes must be booked online in advance.

Alison Clark, Durham County Council’s head of culture, sport and tourism, said: “We are pleased to be able to welcome people back to our indoor fitness class programme.

“We understand that it has been difficult for many people to keep up with their normal fitness regime through the latest lockdown but everyone should feel reassured that our fitness instructors are on hand to support everyone back into exercise and looking forward to getting everyone moving again.”

Residents who would like to get involved from the comfort of their own home can also download the My Wellness app for free, which features live and on demand classes that people can complete in their own time as well as a number of challenges to keep people motivated.

 A number of safety measures are in place at all sites to accommodate social distancing, including limited numbers and movement during classes and additional hand sanitiser stations. People are also asked to wear a face covering when moving around the centres, though these can be removed during classes.

For more information or to book a class online visit www.durham.gov.uk/leisure.