New data shows 'extremely low' COVID prevalence in gyms and leisure centres

It is encouraging to see promising research has identified gyms and leisure centres, within which climbing walls are included, as extremely low risk against Covid-19.

Gyms and leisure centres are associated with an “extremely low” prevalence of Covid-19, according to new research by Jeremy Wilson, CHIEF SPORTS REPORTER, The Telegraph 18 September 2020.

The research finds that gyms and leisure facilities in England have had more than 22 million visits since reopening in July and, according to ukactive’s latest data, there have been 78 confirmed cases of Covid-19 among its customers.

The reported cases did not show specific transmission in a gym environment, but arose where authorities had informed facilities that a user with a subsequent positive result had attended a facility within a certain time period.

We are very pleased to report that thanks to the precautionary measures Durham Climbing Centre have taken to date to prioritise customers and staff safety mean that we have experienced 0 positive cases of Covid-19 within our members and visitors to the centre. This highlights the centre is effectively mitigating the risk and while we are still in the middle of a pandemic, this shows that DCC is a relatively safe place to visit during these times.

Our measures continue indefinitely and we have no plans to reduce any of the measures that we are taking. We continue to follow Government guidelines and make adjustments as necessary.

We have a sophisticated internal track and trace system in operation, with a new app for check in in and out. Visitors without the app, can check in and out easily at reception, or with membership cards.

NHS Test and Trace is available for customers to scan on arrival. In the event of a positive test among our members we would take immediate action to notify NHS Test and Trace and take any action required including notifying visitors to the centre and advising them what action they can take.

So, please continue to follow government guidelines and DCC policies of hand washing, mask wearing and social distancing so together we can continue to operate a climbing centre that is proving to be a safe place to come for adults and children, to exercise in and improve our mental health, and to enjoy the sport that we all love so much!