Hood Park Leisure Centre is set to relaunch group exercise classes in what has been called "a huge boost" for the mental health of the community.

The Ashby venue, run by Everyone Active in partnership with North West Leicestershire District Council, reopened on April 12, after three months of closure due to the third lockdown.

And now group exercise has been given the green light to resume from Monday, May 17 in the penultimate stage of the Government's four-step roadmap.

Prior to the reopening of gyms, customers were able to use Everyone Active's comprehensive package of online workouts and livestreamed classes across its social media pages.

As restrictions have eased, many have been eager to return to group exercise in centres and Everyone Active's strict operational measures mean they can do so in a Covid-safe environment.

Research commissioned by ukactive* showed that 58 per cent of people had managed their mental health and wellbeing during lockdown through being active, while 63 per cent said that taking part in sport and physical activity with others could help with feelings of loneliness.

Duncan Gibb, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: "We are delighted to be able to safely resume group exercise classes in our centres.

"Aside from the obvious physical benefits, this will be a huge boost for mental health and wellbeing in the area and comes at an apt time following the start of Mental Health Awareness Week.

"Many of our customers thrive on the social element of exercise, not just for motivational reasons but also because they enjoy seeing friendly faces in a familiar environment.

"With social contact having been limited over the past year, the ability to mix safely with other members of the community will be appreciated by many.

"The importance of mental wellbeing is proving increasingly resonant with the public and customers can reintroduce group exercise to their fitness regime in the knowledge they are addressing the needs of body and mind."

Councillor Andrew Woodman, Portfolio Holder for Community Services at North West Leicestershire Distrcit Council, added: "The physical and mental wellbeing of local people is of critical importance and, after a challenging year for us all, it's great news to be able to safely reintroduce group exercises to our leisure centres.

"We've been working closely with Everyone Active, and customers can return to these classes with confidence, knowing that their safety is paramount."

Everyone Active has committed to keeping its customers safe and active, ensuring it will meet and exceed Government guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid-19 with the Everyone Active Pledge.