A Douglas fitness club is helping residents keep in shape all from the comfort of their homes with free live classes.

Weekly bodyweight, kettlebell, yoga, pilates and spinning sessions are being run virtually by Cycle 360 in Isle of Man Business Park during the pandemic.

The classes are open to all through the video communication platform Zoom.

Sacha Horsthuis, co-owner and director of Cycle 360, said the business wanted to show gratitude to its members while it was not possible for them to attend the club in person due to coronavirus restrictions.

She said: ’To thank those that make us what we are, we came up with a number of offers and ideas to keep spirits high in this uncertain and somewhat lonely time for everyone, including free and accessible virtual fitness classes to keep people healthy and active.’

Cycle 360’s fitness club was forced to close in mid-March after the government’s announcement that all social gatherings should be avoided.

It informed its users that all active memberships were frozen with any pay-as-you-go classes or class packs being issued with a new expiry date upon re-opening.

A public questionnaire was sent out to help understand when and what virtual classes would suit people. These are now being delivered by freelance fitness instructors and coaches, including Sacha.

’For our freelance instructors taking the classes, it’s their life, it’s their passion and for most it’s also their main source of income,’ she said.

’Exercising on your own for an hour sounds great in theory, but it’s harder in practice.

’It’s a lot easier to be motivated and guided by an experienced and motivational coach when it comes to working out - and then doing this live so you can all speak with each other adds to that morale and sense of community.

’In the grand scheme of things, not being able to workout with your friends and visit the gym isn’t the end of the world as opposed to more difficult problems the world and our local community and economy is currently facing.

’However, during a time like this, most would be at the gym or coming to fitness classes and working off any anxiety and stress.’

The live classes are free, but optional donations can be made to individual instructors.

Sacha added: ’We recognise everyone has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, with some losing their income, so we want to keep it free and accessible to those that can’t afford to make a donation but equally for those that can and are willing to have that option there for them to do so.’

Cycle 360 also leased out its 21 wattbikes to the community, plus other equipment due to high demand.

Catherine Colley, from Maughold who received a wattbike, said: ’I’m very thankful to Cycle 360 for firstly leasing out their wattbikes, so I can continue with my fitness at home, but also having a set time to workout. It really helps with motivation and some sense of normality.’

See Cycle 360’s virtual fitness classes by searching: www.cycle360.com/fitness/timetable/

Cycle 360’s bikeshop remains open, on an appointment only basis. Visit online www.cycle360.com or contact [email protected]