The majority of the National Sports Centre re-opened on Monday, although the facility’s sports halls and swimming pool remain closed for the time being.

The removal of social distancing and relaxation of gathering guidelines means the NSC could re-open its doors alongside other gyms and indoor sports facilities in the island.

In addition to using the squash courts, bowls hall and outdoor facilities, people will be able to attend the NSC gym.

This includes some indoor classes, such as yoga and Pilates, but not high-intensity workouts, such as boxercise and spin classes which are to be phased back in from Thursday.

Spaces will be limited at this stage, so people are advised to book in advance and follow guidelines while working out.

Personal trainers will also be allowed to operate within gyms or private facilities as long as they adhere to guidelines around hygiene and the types of workout allowed.

Swimming pools and spa facilities at the NSC and elsewhere will remain closed until atleast Thursday, but will likely open soon after when they are fully risk accessed.

The NSC’s sports halls will also remain shut for now. These areas have been vital in helping the Isle of Man Government with the storage of essential supplies of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Changes to outdoor sports also came into effect yesterday, allowing groups to play contact sports and share equipment.

However, at this point, competitions and fixtures are not yet permitted.

Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Dr Alex Allinson MHK, said: ’Due to the efforts of our community to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the chance to end social distancing is a fantastic day for the Isle of Man.

’Physical health boosts wellbeing and the return of indoor facilities, including many at the NSC, and outdoor team sports is excellent news for the people of our island.’

l More in Thursday’s Manx Independent.