OCL launches outdoor class timetable

Oldham Community Leisure (OCL) has launched its new outdoor class timetable from March 29, which includes outside Spinning, Zumba and Bootcamp.

The socially distanced outdoor classes will take place at Oldham, Chadderton and Saddleworth leisure centres, and are available to all, both members and non members, for £3 per session, with bookings already being taken.

OCL’s leisure centres will be adhering to the Government’s COVID roadmap, which means indoor activities, including the gym and swimming, will be able to reopen on April 12, with indoor exercise classes and sports returning on the May 17.

OCL’s Chief Executive, Stuart Lockwood, said: “We are delighted to soon be reopening our doors to the community, we know it’s been a long time coming!

"The Government’s COVID-19 roadmap is an ever-flexible schedule and we are naturally prepared for changes, but we remain hopeful for these restart dates and that this time we’ll be back for good.”

OCL introduced its unique outdoor classes during last year’s covid tiering system, and they proved to be very successful, with customers even Spinning in the snow!

Mr Lockwood added: “We are passionate about the benefits of physical activity for our community, for both their physical and mental health, and we remain committed to getting Oldham moving again.

"Our fantastic range of outside classes, commencing on March 29, cater for all abilities, interests and ages - which means there really is something for everyone.

"They were lots of fun last year, and as the weather improves I’m sure there will be high demand.

"Just like so many of our customers, I’ve missed ‘in person’ training and the camaraderie of exercising together.”

During its closures, the team at OCL has been working hard behind the scenes to make sure its facilities are ready and safe for customers to return.

In addition, OCL has been running a number of improvements across its centres, with all works due to be complete later this spring.

Mr Lockwood said: “The lockdown closure has given us the opportunity to review some of our facilities and services and I’m delighted to introduce a number of new offerings including: a new Health MOT with body analysis - free for all members, a new running surface at Radclyffe Athletics track, new ‘virtual cycling’ with Les Mills at Oldham Leisure Centre, the redecoration of all sites, a pool refurbishment at Saddleworth, with a new pool tank following on from the retiling and new filter, plus an At Home Les Mills On Demand Oldham Active discount offer.”

Throughout the pandemic, OCL has run very popular live online classes via its social media platforms, which have helped to keep people fit and motivated during lockdown.

OCL has confirmed it will be continuing these online services for the community, to help reach people who are shielding or apprehensive about returning to leisure centres.

Mr Lockwood said: “That wait is almost over.

"Our team and facilities are ready; it’s not long until we can welcome you back – to help you to move more every day!

"Stay safe, stay apart and stay active.”

All outside classes most be booked in advance via the Eventbrite website, please click here

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