After some gyms reported COVID-19 cases shortly after opening doors to the public, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry [MoCI] updated its instructions for the gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions for gyms across the country.

In a move to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens and residents in Qatar,  authorities on Tuesday announced several updates to instructions issued on July 28 for the third phase of the gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions imposed on gymnasiums.

Among the rules are the cancellation of all group exercises, mandatory mask-wearing at the gym, a minimum of 3 metres social distancing, and closure of toilets and changing rooms.

The ministry’s decision, effective from Wednesday, comes after a number of gyms around Doha recorded several positive COVID cases on Saturday, prompting panic among the fitness community.

Read also: Spread of COVID-19 in closed-space gyms causes panic

In a statement, the ministry urged all gyms in the country to adhere to precautionary and preventive measures to stem the spread of the virus and a potential second wave.

“Any violation of the provisions exposes the perpetrators to legal procedures and accountability. The Ministry affirms that the success of each stage of the comprehensive plan for the gradual lifting of restrictions depends on the commitment of all,” the ministry said.

The updated rules will remain until further notice, the ministry said.

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