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Masks no longer mandatory for group fitness classes in NSW

Erin LyonsNCA NewsWire
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Camera IconNot Supplied Credit: News Corp Australia

A controversial Covid rule which forced gym-goers to wear a mask while working out in a group environment has been quietly scrapped in NSW.

The change was made by Health Minister Brad Hazzard to the state’s public health orders on Thursday night after a series of complaints, with many gym-goers arguing it was difficult to breath.

Masks can now be removed during group classes however they must be worn in communal areas like changing rooms.

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Camera IconHealth Minister Brad Hazzard made a change to the order on Thursday afternoon. NCA NewsWire / Flavio Brancaleone Credit: News Corp Australia

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They were never required while working out on the gym floor.

The change was published on the NSW Health website just after 2pm Thursday.

“The object of this Order is to permit a person to participate in an indoor gym class or dance class without wearing a fitted face covering,” the amendment stated.

“Omit ‘except in an indoor area as part of a gym class or dance class’ from clause.”

Gym-goers had expressed their concern about the mandate on masks while working out with many slamming NSW Health who posted about the rule to Twitter on October 13 - two days after gyms reopened.

“The masked gym classes is the stupidest rule ever. Can only have been made by someone who has never done a gym class,” one person said.

Another wrote: “How the hell can you train in a high intensity class with a mask on? That’s ridiculous.”

LOCKDOWN WEATHER
Camera IconSydneysiders were granted new freedoms on October 11. NCA NewsWire / James Gourley Credit: News Corp Australia

Gyms and fitness centres reopened on October 11 for fully vaccinated residents but strict density limits remained in place.

Currently businesses can have one person per four square metres and classes are capped at 20 people.

No distance limits apply for exercise or recreation.

Indoor swimming pools have reopened and community sports are permitted for fully vaccinated staff, spectators and participants – capacity limits apply.

Gyms that are open to members of the public must have a Covid-19 Safety Plan.

Originally published as Masks no longer mandatory for group fitness classes in NSW

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