WITH gyms and leisure centres closed during the coronavirus outbreak, instructors are providing online sessions to help keep people fit.

A wide variety of classes are available from PE to pilates to residents across Ryedale.

The Workhouse Gym, in Malton, owned by Elis Bucher and Sam Mills, is also loaning gym equipment.

Elis said: “Since our gym closed, my notifications have gone from around 40 to 200 within a day of people asking about equipment and online workouts.

“We decided early on that we should lend out equipment, such as rowing machines, bikes and dumbbells, to people who need it the most.

“We lent our rowing machine and some weights to a group of rugby lads who wanted to keep up with their training.

“Another man, who underwent a recent knee operation, borrowed a bike to continue his rehabilitation

“As an independent business in Malton, we are proud of everyone going the extra mile – customers have even offered to continue paying their membership fee, despite the gym being closed,” added Elis.

“It reaffirms what an amazing establishment Malton is, everyone is supporting each other during this unknown time.

Personal trainer Ollie Varey, who lives in Norton, is also providing daily online workouts.

He said: “Amidst all the chaos and uncertainty with current events, I know people struggling to live their lives properly and exercise is a major part of that. I want to give a bit back to this community by offering exercise sessions in the comfort of their homes free of charge. It is the least I can do to help during this difficult time for all of us. We’re all in the same boat, and we should be kind and supportive always.”

Varey Fit Personal Training and workhouse gym malton can be found on Facebook. Other classes being provided online include Dance Fit with Natalie Stevens, The Radical Health Co, Dance Expression, Body and Soul Malton Community.