Good news for sports fans and gym-goers across the province – as COVID-19 restrictions slowly start to lift, fitness enthusiasts will be allowed to enjoy many of their favourite activities once more.
At a press conference on Tuesday, BC health officials announced a four-step ‘return to normal life’, outlining different phases that are a part a gradual restart.
With more than 60% of adults vaccinated with their first dose and COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations steadily declining, the province is moving forward with the first step of their plan for a careful and safe restart.
For gyms, this means that as of May 25th, low-intensity indoor fitness classes will be allowed once more, though masks are still mandatory within indoor spaces. For example, attending your favourite yoga or pilates class will now be possible, with limited capacity.
Outdoor local sports teams can now engage in practices and games, and this is applicable for all ages. Spectators at all sports activities are still prohibited, and teams are still asked to remain local as a part of current travel restrictions.
Looking ahead to the future of sports and fitness, health officials have a projection that as of June 15th, activities will open up further; dependent on the continued following of health guidelines and vaccinations of British Columbians.
As of June 15th, Step 2 of the proposed plan could see high-intensity fitness classes returning with reduced capacity, as well as indoor games and practices back on deck for all ages – no spectators will be allowed.
For outdoor sports only, Step 2 could mean a limit of 50 spectators.
By July 1st, Step 3 hopes to see all indoor fitness classes reinstated, and a limited number of indoor spectators allowed.
The last and final step of the reopening phases, Step 4, will occur on September 7th, 2021. By this time, health officials predict that BC residents will be able to essentially ‘return to normal’ when it comes to sporting events – like cheering on your favourite team in the stands.
Take a look at the full breakdown of all that’s included in BC’s four-phase restart plan announced today.
