Falkirk gym and dance school owners say ‘great to be back’

Connor Russell’s business had been operating for just over two years when like other facilities around the country it was forced to close in March due to the pandemic.

But at 6am on Monday The Engine Room in Callendar Road, Falkirk, welcomed back members.

Connor, who is also head coach, said: “It was great to get back. When we heard that we could open from August 31 two weeks earlier than first proposed, we worked so hard to get everything ready.

“Obviously as a business owner I wanted to reopen but we’ve got a really great community of members and it’s not just a gym where someone comes, does their routine and goes home. It’s very social and suddenly that came to a halt.

“So it was really important to reopen and be able to offer that social inter-action once again to our very loyal members.”

He added that the necessary changes, including entrance and exit arrangements, cleaning equipment and hand washing, had all been readily accepted by the gym-goers.

“We ran eight classes on the first day, three in the morning and five in the evening, and every was very accepting of all the new arrangements put in place.”

Also opening again for business on Monday were Bannatyne’s at Central Retail Park, Falkirk, and Galaxy Sports Tone Zone in Grangemouth.

Dance classes have also been given the go ahead to start up again. They also have to enforce social distancing and ensure that facilities are cleaned between classes.

Falkirk Community Trust will not be opening any of its facilities before next Monday, September 7, when they outdoor area at Grangemouth Stadium will be available.

They hope to reopen the Mariner Sports Centre in Camelon, Grangemouth Stadium indoor facilities and Stenhousemuir gym on Monday, September 14, “subject to all checks being completed satisfactorily”.

There is still no indication when Grangemouth Sports Complex or Bo’ness Recreation Centre will reopen.