Stage 3 Restrictions in Victoria will come into effect from 11.59pm tonight, which will see all non-essential services including gyms close in Greater Melbourne and Mitchell Shire for at least six weeks.

With community safety as the number one priority, Fitness Australia continues to follow the guidelines set out by the Victorian Government but said continued exercise was still vital for mental health and overall wellbeing during isolation.

Fitness Australia CEO Barrie Elvish said it was still safe to exercise outdoors within a local area provided social distancing measures were in place.

Mr Elvish said:

“Exercise is still safe. The great outdoors is still safe with social distancing in place. Moving your regular training sessions outside will ensure you can still keep your regular routine while protecting yourself during this time.”

“The vital role fitness and regular moderate activity has on our mental health and overall wellbeing cannot be underestimated, which is why continuing to be active during these worrying times can help with isolation, stress, anxiety and help support a person’s immune system.”

Our message is simple – it has never been more important to stay active to help keep our mental health in check.

Mr Elvish said Fitness Australia’s Keep on Moving campaign is a great place for Victorians to access a range of exercise and training options to keep active at home.

Mr Elvish said:

“Fitness Australia’s Keep on Moving campaign provides direct access to free and paid virtual workouts from Fitness Australia’s partners and members, as well as  all the latest tips and information on keeping active.”

“As the Victorian fitness sector continues to adapt to changing restrictions, the Keep on Moving website is a great place for Victorians to access professional fitness guidance and training to ensure they can safely workout to remain active in the comfort of their own home.”

Mr Elvish said while gyms will be closed during the Stage 3 Restrictions, they can be a COVID safe environment once restrictions ease and they reopen.

Mr Elvish said:

“Gyms can be a COVID safe environment when strict measures are enforced to protect the health and safety of members and employees. Contrary to many reports about gyms being a high-risk environment, research shows they can be safe.”

“We look forward to working with the Victorian Government in coming weeks to develop a Victorian framework to ensure fitness facilities and gyms can reopen safely and quickly when restrictions ease.”

For more information on Fitness Australia’s Keep on Moving Campaign visit keeponmoving.fitness.org.au