IMPORTANT COVID-19 UPDATE - FREEDOM DAY...

CLASS UPDATE 19th July 2021

From 19th July 2021 the legal restrictions surrounding Covid-19 have been removed, however it is important that we still take reasonable actions to ensure the safety of all of those who attend classes, as well as the wider community. This includes the mental wellbeing of individuals and respecting individual choices as we move out of a very difficult 16-month period.

For this reason, at least for the time being, to ensure everyone still feels comfortable attending classes many of the precautions will remain in place.

Face coverings

• Face coverings during exercise have never been mandatory, however at all other times, both entering the hall and leaving the hall we were required to wear a face covering. Although the legal requirement to wear a face mask has now been removed, it is still expected that people wear a face covering in enclosed spaces (when not exercising). For this reason, access to the hall will remain limited and you will only be permitted entry shortly before the class begins and be expected to leave as soon as possible after the class ends, this means members will not need to wear a face covering, unless they choose to do so. It may be useful to have one handy in case you need to use the toilet. For any members doing back-to-back classes it is recommended that you enjoy some fresh air outside the hall until your second class is due to begin.

Actions still required by class attendees

• Continue to sign in to each class online, this acts as a fire register as well as helping me to plan effective classes which maintain social distancing. This will also remain to act as a method of registering your details for NHS Test and Trace.

• Members should not attend classes if they test positive or begin to display Covid-19 symptoms. If you have had a close contact with someone who has Covid-19 or have otherwise been told to self-isolate, you will need to refrain from attending class. 

• Members should maintain social distancing from all other participants (unless from the same household).

• Please continue to bring your own equipment to sessions.

• It is recommended members do not share any fitness equipment and continue to use the hand sanitiser available.

• Respect other attendees personal space.

What Fitness Quest will be doing to minimise the risk of Covid-19

• Continue to limit the maximum number of participants to each class.

• Continue to ensure common touch points are kept clean.

• Continue to ensure good ventilation.

• Continue to offer hand sanitiser.

• Continue to risk assess and remain up to date with the Covid-19 risk, this may involve the addition of further safety precautions in the future.

• Continue to maintain NHS Test and Trace records.

• Continue to limit access to the hall before and after classes to ensure time spent in an enclosed safe when not exercising is at a minimum.

What is changing

• Gradually, we will begin to reduce allocating you your places within the hall. We have been doing this to ensure a minimum of 2m distance between all those signed in. We tend to fill spaces furthest away from the entrance, to avoid people having to walk past one another. Please continue to try and fill the spaces as best as possible and remember to maintain 2m distance from other members, whilst the restrictions have officially been lifted, please consider that other members may not feel comfortable with you being close to them and I want to ensure everyone feels safe and can enjoy exercise.

• Many of the remaining Fitness Quest Covid-19 Policies not addressed in this post will be removed, this will be updated as soon as possible.

• From 16^th August 2021 it is expected that any adult who is fully vaccinated will not need to self-isolate following close contact with someone who has COVID-19. You will still need to take a PCR test and self-isolate if the result is positive. Until this date, please continue to self-isolate if required to do so.

Please get in touch with me if you have any questions or concerns regarding any of the above.

Thank you again for your understanding and patience, for your own reference, this latest guidance has been based on the CIMSPA recommendations for the fitness industry.

Class Update for January 2021 - Tier 4

 

Firstly I want to wish you all a happy New Year and I hope you all managed to find some time to relax and reflect over Christmas. It seems that 2021 will be a tough start for many of us but we can remain hopeful that by the Spring the situation may be looking better. With the recent government announcements in mind, with no timescale to work towards other than the fortnightly government updates, please can I request that you all read the following thoroughly and if you have any questions please email me.

Return to classes

Bournemouth has been placed into tier 4 as of 31st December 2020, with no timescale announced as to how long the restrictions may last. Therefore all Fitness Quest in person classes will NOT be permitted to continue until further notice. All courses that were due to continue w/c 4th January 2021 will be frozen and will continue in person once classes are allowed to return.

Virtual classes

I have taken the decision not to start a new virtual block of fitness classes on the 4th January 2021. 

• I will re-assess the demand for a virtual block after the next government announcement due on the 13th January 2021 when we may know more about the duration of restrictions required and the ongoing situation.
• Since March 2020, virtual memberships helped to keep Fitness Quest running, however, demand did inevitably drop off and January-April has a lot of annual business bills so I've taken the decision to find temporary work to help pay for both business and personal expenses.
• I also have a 3 day university exam on the 18th January (another perk of Covid-19), so not teaching for a few weeks will really help me to concentrate on revision. 

Member motivation

I do want to ensure that you all stay as motivated as possible over the next few weeks whilst I'm not running any virtual live classes, therefore I will be allowing any member who is booked onto an in person course FREE ACCESS to the Facebook group which contains workout challenges (WOW's), pre-recorded PiYo and stretch routines and on demand SH1FT and L1FT. I will also try to pre-record some M1ND classes to mix it up a bit. It would be great for those of you who are active in the group to post your workouts and help to motivate each other (and me, I love seeing what you're all doing). I know for some people virtual classes aren't their cup of tea but right now it's the best we have and unless you are happy doing your own thing to keep fit I do really encourage you to join the group as it provides you with a great resource for home workouts. Keeping active now is so important, not just for our physical health but our mental health too. I'll be re-posting the WOW's from the previous two lockdowns on a weekly basis (although you can view them all), if you've done them before, doing them again is a great fitness test. If you would like to join the Facebook group please email me.

Contacting me

If you need to contact me, please do so via email or by phone (07791 605150) as I am not currently using my personal Facebook account (you can still message Fitness Quest on Facebook but I may not reply too quickly). Please note that whilst I have alternative employment my replies may not be very fast, hence why I am streamlining the contact methods I need to check. Hopefully most of the questions you have can either be found on the class pages on this website or by viewing the Fitness Quest Covid-19 Policies.

Personal training

Personal training sessions will still continue virtually until further notice.

Finally...

Thank you all for your continued support, hopefully by the end of January we will either be going back to in person classes or starting up another block of virtual classes (once I've done my exam and am trained in my new job). I will update all of the class pages and the Covid-19 policy shortly and I will email each of you who are booked onto a course over the weekend. I wanted to get this post out now to keep you all updated. To ensure you get the updates as soon as I post them please subscribe to this blog (top right hand corner of this page) and like the Facebook page. 

Please do use the online library of fitness content I've created this year and I'll be asking in the Facebook group in a couple of weeks how many of you would like to continue virtually, if needed. Please take care of yourselves and send me an email if you need anything.

See you all soon

Vicki

Fitness Quest Covid-19 return to business policy

All members are required to read, understand and adhere to the following Covid-19 policies. This document is amended from the original policies set out after lockdown 1.0.

Fitness Classes

To ensure the safety of all class participants, Fitness Quest staff and other users of the venue, strict Covid-19 policies are required. These policies are outlined below and are subject so change in line with government, venue and Fitness Quest guidelines.

Updates

This policy was last updated on 1st September 2021. Whilst the legal restrictions surrounding Covid-19 have been lifted, Fitness Quest strives to ensure classes do not increase the transmission of Covid-19 and therefore, members and staff are asked to adhere to the following policy.

1.0 - Member responsibility to minimise the spread of Covid-19

1.1 - If a member is required to self isolate according to government guidelines, they should not attend class until they are no longer required to isolate, or until they are no longer testing positive or displaying symptoms of Covid-19. 

1.2 - All members will be required to complete an online sign in for each class which will open 48 hours before the start of each class. This will act as your sign in for class and will be the method of retaining your contact details for 21 days in accordance with the test and trace system. This will also act as a Covid-19 disclaimer that you are not displaying Covid-19 symptoms. This method of sign in, also replaces our pen and paper fire register.

1.3 - Members who sign in online and can no longer attend must log back into bookwhen and cancel their ticket, otherwise their contact details will remain listed as an attendee. 

1.4 - All members will be required to complete an updated PAR-Q before returning to classes, this will last 12 months or unless any of the participant answers change.

1.5 - Face coverings DO NOT need to be worn - however, members are welcome to wear one when they are not exercising should they choose to. It is advised you bring a face covering that you could wear when entering enclosed spaces where you may come into close contact with others such as corridors.

1.6 - Each member is expected to take responsibility for their participation in each session, this includes using hand sanitiser after touching surfaces.

1.7 - Upon return to class members will be advised to maintain 2m distance from other members, at all times unless they are in the same household bubble.

1.8 - Members should refrain from any physical contact with any other person whilst participating in class (including hugs, high fives, fist bumps).

1.9 - Hand sanitiser is provided and should be used upon entry and exit. 

1.10 - No equipment sharing between participants, therefore some classes such as Kettlercise will require you to bring your own kettlebell. 

1.11 - If you arrive at your class early, please wait in your car or away from the entrance until the class start time to minimise your contact with others.

1.12 - Toilets are not to be used as a changing facility, all members should arrive dressed ready for participation.

1.13 - Water and kitchen facilities will not be available, please ensure you bring your own water.

2.0  - Fitness Quest responsibility to minimise the spread of Covid-19

2.1 - Fitness Quest reserves the right to end a session, or remove participants if any Covid-19 concerns arise.

2.2 - A minimum of 10 minutes between each class will be maintained to allow for cleaning of touch points and safe switch over of participants.  

2.3 - The class capacity has been detailed in the Fitness Quest Risk Assessment for each venue. This is based on government guidelines.

2.4 - First Aid protocols are outlined here.

2.5 - No class formats requiring close contact (Boxercise) will be scheduled until Covid-19 risk is deemed negligible. 

2.6 - Fitness Quest staff are taking regular lateral flow tests and will cancel classes and begin self isolation should any test return a positive result.

2.7 - Windows and doors will be open where possible to aid ventilation. 

 

3.0 - Booking onto a class

3.1 - All outstanding sessions, booked and paid in full before any lockdown will resume once the government permits fitness classes to be held. 

3.2 - Due to limited availability, all classes will need to be booked and paid for in advance. There will currently be no pay as you go classes or early bird promotions available due to lower class numbers and ensuring classes can be financially viable to run. To book onto a course, please contact info@fitnessquest.co.uk

3.3 - No refunds or transfers are available should the member change their mind about attending (see next section for cancelled classes).

3.4 - Once you have paid for a block of classes, you will still be required to complete a weekly sign in, without completing this each week you will not be permitted to enter the class venue.

3.5 - No cash payment will be accepted until further notice. All classes should be pre-booked and paid for in advance. Failure to book may result in you being turned away. 

4.0 - Future lockdowns

4.1 - In the event of further national, local or school lockdowns classes may need to be cancelled at short notice. 

4.2 - As soon as it becomes possible to return to the venue, Fitness Quest in person classes will resume and no paid sessions will be lost due to lockdown closures, these will automatically be carried forward.

Personal Training

Sessions must adhere to 2m social distancing by all parties. Government guidelines can be found here. Fitness Quest will only be offering personal training sessions for a maximum of two people at this time. Indoor personal training is permitted in private households only, clients from the same household may participate in the sessions. Outdoor sessions should still be the preferred option where possible, however indoor sessions or online sessions can be arranged if the weather is wet. 

It is advised that minimum equipment should be used and cleaned between uses. To minimise risk further, Fitness Quest will not currently be using equipment unless it belongs to the client. It is still advised the equipment used is cleaned thoroughly after each use. Basic hygiene measures should be adhered to by all parties, including washing of hands before and after each session and avoid touching the face whilst exercising. Face masks are NOT mandatory. First Aid protocols are outlined here.

It is the responsibility of each client to inform Fitness Quest if they have suffered from any of the Covid-19 symptoms within the past 10 days, have tested positive or are waiting for test results regardless of symptoms, or have been in contact with anyone who has displayed symptoms or tested positive. Sessions cannot go ahead if any party is showing symptoms or lives with a person who is shielding or is deemed vulnerable. Fitness Quest reserves the right to end a session if any Covid-19 concerns arise.

Thank you for your support and patience. 

Important Recap for the Return to Fitness Classes

 

WOW! How wonderful to be back to teaching actual in person classes last week! It’s been amazing to see you all again and I hope those of you who managed to get back last week enjoyed it.

It’s been a crazy six months and whilst I’m over the moon to get back to teaching, the whole Covid-19 situation has inevitably left me feeling quite apprehensive and stressed about ensuring I get everything right whilst still making classes effective and safe! I’m sure we’ll all get used to the rules and restrictions in place within a week or so, but I just wanted to remind you all of the really important information.

The Covid-19 policies I asked you all to read in my last email (13^th September) are genuinely so important to be aware of so that we can adhere to these each week. There’s a lot to remember, so I’m asking that you all take the time to read through them again which will hopefully mean I don’t have to keep reminding everyone each week. The rules are mainly here to keep us and the other users of the school safe, but also to ensure that I am able to continue running Covid secure classes for the foreseeable future.

I can’t thank you all enough for sticking to the most important rules this week, I just want to mention a few things below which will hopefully improve classes even more!

1. Please try to arrive as close to the start time as possible. If you arrive early, please wait in your car (or away from the main entrance) until a minute or two before the class start time as this will prevent people from congregating in groups. Please remember you are not permitted to mingle in groups of more than six. Not arriving early also ensures Liam and I have enough time to clean the touch points and open windows and doors.

2. With this in mind, I also need to be strict on class start times. At Epiphany, the front door will be locked and curtains closed once the session starts, this is to stop passers by trying to access the premises without authorisation. If you are running late it is important that you TEXT me (not Facebook) and within reason I will wait a few minutes before starting the class and locking the doors.

07791 605150

3. Please remember to sign in to EACH CLASS you attend, this opens 48 hours before the class start time and replaces our paper sign in methods. I recommend setting reminders on your phone as I will no longer be sending personal reminders. I am using this as a fire register, a method of planning class spacing and also for track and trace data collection. Therefore, this information will be held securely for 21 days after the class has ended. If you can no longer attend the class please log back into your “booking” and cancel your place otherwise you will remain an attendee for this class. As of Thursday 24^th September I will also be displaying a QR code for the NHS Test and Trace app and you have been encouraged by the government to download and use the app where possible. If you cannot do this your online sign in provides all of the required information.

www.bookwhen.com/fitnessquest

4. When you arrive at class, you may be guided to a certain area of the hall by either Liam or myself. This is so we can fill the hall, based on anticipated numbers, as far away from the entrance as possible. You may notice we’ve laid out bright pink discs in some of the busier classes, these are 3m² boxes and the corners mark your boundary. Please keep your personal belongings within your area and avoid touching school furniture or placing your belongings on tables/chairs etc. Sanitiser (70% alcohol) is available for you to use. If you need to move around the hall (e.g. to access toilet) please just be aware that you must maintain 2m distance from any other member.

I’m aware this all seems quite regimented to read (and definitely a little strange in practice too), but I’m confident we will get used to it soon.

I hate having to mention all of the rules in person, it’s awkward and certainly isn’t the most fun part of my job but I do really appreciate your support, acceptance and understanding each class. If I notice anything which goes against the policies, whether that’s potential symptoms or gathering in groups larger than six, I will need to ask people to leave or change their behaviour otherwise I am facing huge fines and closing classes; please don’t put me in this situation. If you are unsure about any of the policy please email me and I will be happy to clarify.

We are extremely lucky that fitness classes are exempt from the rule of six, but this only works with your co-operation, (GOV.UK 2020) point 3.15.

If you have ANY of the Covid-19 symptoms, please do not attend class:

·         A high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)

·         A new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual)

·         A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – this means you've noticed you cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to normal

(NHS 2020)

Thank you so much for your continued support, it may not seem like it with all my nagging but I am beyond grateful. Without everyone keeping themselves in credit, adapting to online memberships and signing up to the in person classes at the earliest opportunity, Fitness Quest would not have survived to this point. You may not be aware of the impact you have individually had on so many local businesses over the past six months, but without even the smallest of gestures, even more families across the World would have felt the impact much more severely. So on behalf of all the small businesses you’ve been able to support, thank you.

I look forward to seeing you all again this week.

Covid-19 Updates - Plan of Action

I hope you are all keeping well and you are slowly finding some aspects of your life are returning to normal.

When we closed classes there were murmurs of lockdown lasting two, maybe three months, but we're now heading into the FIFTH block of four week virtual memberships (starts Monday 20th July). My lovely members have adapted really well and are enjoying the virtual classes, but we're all chomping at the bit to return to in person classes.

Whilst the government announced that gyms are allowed to reopen on the 25th July, unfortunately the easing of restrictions doesn't simply translate to community halls such as schools and churches. There's a lot of guidelines to adhere to which currently are not possible in smaller venues (ventilation, one way systems, maximum capacity). Further to this, both of my schools have confirmed that a return to classes will not be possible until September, provided the Covid-19 situation does not worsen and restrictions have eased to allow us all a safe return (the schools priority is quite rightly the children).

Considering the above information, along with recent government advice I will be working with a date of return to classes for the week commencing 21st September 2020. This is by no means set in stone but it does give us all a date to work towards. I have outlined a return to classes policy, which I would encourage you to read regularly as it will be updated as the situation changes. Once we return, all members will be required to adhere to the Covid-19 policy. All payments/bookings will resume from the first confirmed date we are allowed back.

The good news for those of you who are currently virtual members, is that this means we will have another four week block running between 17th August and 13th September 2020.

For those of you who have not yet joined us online, I really would encourage you to give it a go. I now have a combination of pre-recorded and live classes, as well as some catch up classes for HIIT and Boxercise HIIT which are available for 7 days after the live class for you to complete whenever your schedule allows. Please discuss giving the classes a go with me as I'd really love you to use the next eight weeks as a way of phasing yourself back into classes. You can read more about the virtual membership here.

If you have not yet completed the RETURN TO FITNESS SURVEY please do so as soon as possible as it really helps me to plan our return based on what the majority of members want.

I have found the transition from teaching in person to online a challenge but enjoyable at the same time. I've had regular emotional breakdowns about the uncertainty of what the future holds for Fitness Quest and my fellow community fitness instructors. I've missed the interactivity and naughty corners a real class offers up each and every week. I have also worked hard to adapt what I can offer based on member feedback, at times not knowing if it would work. I therefore believe wholeheartedly that by working together, we CAN get back to achieving amazing community fitness classes.

I'm beyond grateful for all of the support you've all shown me so far, but the journey to recovery is far from over. I appreciate your patience over the next couple of months, as plans are bound to change. Even once we make it back we can't guarantee that there won't be any further local lockdowns. Therefore I would ask that you all remain open minded to giving online options a go in case of a "plan B" scenario. Fingers crossed it's smooth sailing once we're back!

If anyone would like to discuss anything, from barriers to joining us online, worries about returning to in person classes or just to touch base please send me an email. I'll get back to you as soon as I can, I may be a little slow to reply as I've taken on some hours with the uni to help pay some bills!

Thanks again and I can't wait to see you all really soon!

Vicki

Fitness Quest Membership - Four weeks begin 20th July

When?

The next four week Fitness Quest Membership starts on Monday 20th July and ends on Sunday 16th August.

How much?

It's £25 for the four weeks, no commitment to sign up again after it ends.

What is it?

I've been adapting the membership slightly since we began lockdown, taking member feedback into consideration. Along with a support network, and priority access to in person classes (when they are allowed to return), the membership provides the following:

• Unlimited access to the live class timetable, brought to you via Zoom (see timetable below).
• Catch up with HIIT and Boxercise HIIT for up to 7 days after the live class, at a time convenient to you.
• On demand access to a 40-45 minute PiYo session, one routine added to the library per week starting 6th July, these sessions can be accessed as often as you want, to do whenever you can.
• On demand access to short stretch routines. As with PiYo, these are added to a library, you can choose which session to do, whenever you wish. These are simple yet effective stretches which focus on the most common stiff areas such as hips, lower back and shoulders.
• Workout of the week (WOW). This is a weekly workout for those who fancy an extra challenge and something to do in their own time. You can adapt and modify the workout depending on your fitness level and available equipment.
• Access to a private Facebook group where other tips and challenges are provided, also forming the main platform for our support network.
• Potential for small in person fitness groups on private, outside land only (such as gardens). Social distancing must be maintained and the member who wishes to host the session must arrange with the other members and agree a suitable time with myself. If social distancing rules are broken, these sessions will no longer be offered.
• A 20% discount on any further virtual Fitness Quest services such as exercise programming.

If you would like to book a place for the block starting on 20th July, please email info@fitnessquest.co.uk

Thanks again for all of your continued support, it's very much appreciated during these tough times!

Vicki

Keeping in touch - Lockdown updates

Hi everyone, unfortunately I don't have much to update you on, apart from a couple of minor changes and to remind you of some really important topics which you may or may not already be aware of.

Returning to Fitness

I hope you're all managing ok and that you are slowly able to make that transition into the new normal. There are a few industries still waiting on clearance from the government to reopen, sadly Fitness Quest falls into that bracket. I've had a few members ask about running outdoor classes as they've seen others being held... Government guidance only allows for a maximum of six people, including the instructor to take part in fitness classes, even outside whilst adhering to social distancing. BCP council also requires trainers to have a license to operate classes on their land, most instructors don't have this. Without this license or if classes are being held in groups larger than 6, the instructors insurance is not valid. Finally, we all know how temperamental the British weather is, unless I'm able to run classes in all weather, it's not viable for me to replace the virtual classes at this stage. This is one of the reasons I asked members to complete a return to fitness survey, as it really helps me to plan how I can cater for as many people as possible. If you haven't yet filled this in I would really appreciate you doing so.

I have also outlined some Return to Fitness Policies of which I would be grateful for you to read, I don't know how much these will change before we return but these would be valid and put into place should we be allowed back tomorrow. The policies include government guidelines, Fitness Quest rules and consideration for venue providers (although I'm still waiting to receive their full T&C's).

Personal Training

1-2-1 and 1-2-2 personal training in person has now restarted. This can be on private outdoor land (such as a garden) with up to two clients from the same or different households, or inside a private residence with up to two clients from the same household. Full conditions are outlined in the Return to Fitness Policies. Virtual personal training is still offered and will now be a permanent Fitness Quest service.

Virtual Memberships

I was really hoping that our fourth online block would be the final one before we were allowed to start back with some in person classes, however, with no relaxation on gatherings (maximum of 6 from different households) and no communication from my venue hire providers, I'm going ahead with offering a fifth block of virtual membership, commencing on Monday 20th July and ending on Sunday 16th August. It may be that within that block some face to face classes are offered, but this depends on various factors all falling in our favour.

You can read about everything that's included in the Fitness Quest Virtual Membership here. As a quick recap though, this is what's on offer:

• Six live classes each week (Kettlercise, HIIT, Stretch and Strength, Sculpt and Burn, Boxercise HIIT and Flexi Friday)
• Catch up if you miss HIIT, Boxercise HIIT or Flexi Friday classes. These are available for you to do anytime you want, for up to 7 days after the live class
• On demand stretch routines - I've recorded lots of routines for you to do and repeat whenever you need them, there is no time limit on these
• Access to two brilliant formats on demand called SH1FT (HIIT based) and L1FT (weights based) for you to complete whenever you want
• Workout of the Week - A tough exercise challenge for you to do in your own time
• Technique challenges
• Support network

Thank You

I know I keep saying it, but I really do appreciate all the support I've received over the past few months and going forward.Whilst the virtual memberships have helped to keep the business costs covered, I've now reached the point where I need to accept work elsewhere. Most of you know I also work for the University, now they are phasing a return to the office I have accepted some shifts just to help with my personal finances. Please be patient with me if I take a little longer than usual to reply to any messages. Please also be assured that running Fitness Quest is my priority and I will maintain high standards of service.

Finally, I'd like to say that we're still on this strange journey together. Some of you have already returned to the office, some of you have been key workers throughout, others are still shielding whilst some have apprehensively sent their kids back to school. Whatever your situation at present, it's completely normal to be lacking motivation. Some of you have been absent from classes and I just wanted to reach out, often we just need a gentle kick up the bum to get things moving, but sometimes the reasons run deeper. Please remember that I'm here to help, if you are struggling financially or need more than a kick up the bum please reach out to me and I'll do my best to help.

Stay safe.

Vicki

Fitness Quest Covid-19 return to business policy

This post will document the action Fitness Quest has made to ensure government guidelines are adhered to, by both staff and customers. The initial date of this post is 16th June 2020 and will be edited and updated in line with the easing of government restrictions and the policies of venue hire providers. Please note that the following information policies are that of government advice, venue hire providers and Fitness Quest. Further additions may be included based on customer feedback.

Fitness Classes

Indoor, in person classes restart after lockdown 2.0 the week commencing 7th December 2020. To ensure the safety of all class participants, Fitness Quest staff and other users of the venue, strict Covid-19 policies are required. These policies are outlined below and are subject so change in line with government, venue and Fitness Quest guidelines.

Updates

This policy was last updated on 1st December 2020 to make the following amendments:

• Numbers added to each policy point for reference
• Updated social distancing guidance to reflect tier two regulations (point 1.13), this replaced the previous rule of six guidelines
• Updated guidance to reflect face mask usage when entering and leaving the venue (1.21)

1 - Minimising the spread of Covid-19

 

1.1 - No member will be permitted to enter class if they have developed any of the Covid-19 symptoms within the past 14 days, have tested positive, or have been in contact with anyone who has displayed symptoms or tested positive. 

1.2 - Members cannot attend if they live with a person who is shielding or is deemed vulnerable.

1.3 - Each member is expected to take responsibility for their participation in each session, this includes avoiding touching as many surfaces as possible.

1.4 - Upon return class members will be required to maintain 2m distance from other members, at all times. Where possible members will be allocated a 3m² marked area. 

1.5 - Members are not to have any physical contact with any other person whilst participating in class (including hugs, high fives, fist bumps).

1.6 - Hand sanitiser is provided and should be used upon entry. 

1.7 - All members should avoid touching their faces during the class. 

1.8 - Windows and doors will be open where possible to aid ventilation where possible. 

1.9 - No equipment sharing between participants, therefore some classes such as Kettlercise will require you to bring your own kettlebell. 

1.10 - A minimum of 10 minutes between each class should be maintained to allow for cleaning of touch points and safe switch over of participants. 

1.11 - If you arrive at your class early, please wait in your car or away from the entrance until the class start time to ensure social distancing can be achieved.

1.12 - No cash payment will be accepted until further notice. All classes should be pre-booked and paid for in advance. Failure to book may result in you being turned away.

1.13 - Participants are to remain in their designated spots and at no time, inside or outside of the class gather with any other person (unless from the same household)

1.14 - Should a member need to move around the hall (e.g. to access toilet) they must maintain 2m distance from any other member.

1.15 - Personal belongings should not be brought into class, other than a personal water bottle, keys, and any essential equipment, these are to be left in an area designated for each participant and not moved to any other location or left on school furniture. 

1.16 - Fitness Quest reserves the right to end a session, or remove participants if any Covid-19 concerns arise.

1.17 - No participant will be allowed back to the venue for at least 14 days from the onset of symptoms or required to provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 test. 

1.18 - Where possible, members arriving by car should aim to park leaving a minimum of one parking space between cars.

1.19 - Toilets are not to be used as a changing facility, all members should arrive dressed ready for participation.

1.20 - Water and kitchen facilities will not be available, please ensure you bring your own water.

1.21 - Face masks SHOULD be worn when entering and leaving the hall but WILL NOT be required when exercising. Please bring suitable storage to keep your face mask safe and clean whilst you are exercising and use sanitiser on your hands before putting your face mask back on.

  

2 - Changes to class structure

2.1 - To ensure adequate cleaning and change over time between classes, one hour classes will now be 55 minutes and other class start/end times may be slightly amended, these can be found on the class pages of this website.

2.2 - Maximum class capacity will be either the gathering size recommended by the government or one person per 3m², whichever is smaller (including the instructor). The class capacity has been detailed in the Fitness Quest Risk Assessment for each venue.

2.3 - First Aid protocols are outlined here.

2.4 - Music volume will be reduced to a minimum to ensure there is no need to raise voices.

2.5 - All members will be required to complete an updated PAR-Q before returning to classes, this will last 12 months or unless any of the participant answers change.

2.6 - All members will be required to complete an online registration for each class which will open 48 hours before the start of each class. This will act as your sign in for class and will be the method of retaining your contact details for 21 days in accordance with the track and trace system. This will also act as a disclaimer that you are not suffering from any Covid-19 symptoms, have had contact with anyone displaying symptoms/are shielding, are awaiting test results and agree not to attend class if these details change. 

2.7 - The NHS Test and Trace QR code will be displayed at each class (as of 24th September 2020).

2.8 - No class formats requiring close contact (Boxercise) will be scheduled until government regulations permit these activities.

3 - Booking onto a class

3.1 - All outstanding sessions, booked and paid in full before lockdown 2.0 will resume the week commencing 7th December 2020. 

3.2 - Due to limited availability, all classes will need to be booked and paid for in advance. There will currently be no pay as you go classes or early bird promotions available due to lower class numbers and ensuring classes can be financially viable to run. To book onto a course, please contact info@fitnessquest.co.uk

3.3 - No refunds or transfers are available should the member change their mind about attending (see next section for cancelled classes).

3.4 - Once you have paid for a block of classes, you will still be required to complete a weekly registration, without completing this each week you will not be permitted to enter the class venue.

4 - Future lockdowns

4.1 - In the event of further national, local or school lockdowns classes may need to be cancelled at short notice. Where in person classes are cancelled, Fitness Quest will endeavour to offer virtual memberships. 

4.2 - As soon as it becomes possible to return to the venue Fitness Quest in person classes will resume and no paid sessions will be lost due to lockdown closures, these will automatically be carried forward.

Personal Training

Currently no personal training will be taking place in person. These will return in 2021 if government guidelines permit. Personal training sessions are currently offered virtually only.

As of 16th June, personal trainers are permitted to train up to five people from different households at the same time. These sessions must adhere to 2m social distancing by all parties. Government guidelines can be found here. Fitness Quest will only be offering sessions from private outside land (such as a garden), as the risks are deemed to be lower. Fitness Quest will also only be offering personal training sessions for a maximum of two people at this time. As of 4th July 2020 indoor personal training is permitted in private households only, clients from the same household may participate in the sessions. All social distancing guidelines are to be adhered to during indoor sessions. Outdoor sessions should still be the preferred option where possible, however indoor sessions or online sessions can be arranged if the weather is wet. 

It is advised that minimum equipment should be used and cleaned between uses. To minimise risk further, Fitness Quest will not currently be using equipment unless it belongs to the client. It is still advised the equipment used is cleaned thoroughly after each use. Basic hygiene measures should be adhered to by all parties, including washing of hands before and after each session and avoid touching the face whilst exercising. Face masks are NOT mandatory. First Aid protocols are outlined here.

It is the responsibility of each client to inform Fitness Quest if they have suffered from any of the Covid-19 symptoms within the past 14 days, have tested positive or are waiting for test results regardless of symptoms, or have been in contact with anyone who has displayed symptoms or tested positive. Sessions cannot go ahead if any party is showing symptoms or lives with a person who is shielding or is deemed vulnerable. Fitness Quest reserves the right to end a session if any Covid-19 concerns arise.

Thank you for your support and patience.

Fitness Quest Virtual Classes - How to sign up!

These past few weeks have been a really difficult time for all of us and I've been racking my brain to find a solution that I feel will be of the benefit to all of us over the coming weeks/months.

My first clarification is to remind you all that any course bookings you have made have been automatically frozen and will continue when it is safe to return. I appreciate that online classes may not be for everyone which is why I am not offering the virtual package as a replacement for courses already paid for. If you would like to try what I have on offer below please let me know, even if you just want to see how it could work (it's surprised me how much I'm enjoying it). If any of you reading this are struggling financially, please talk to me, I do not want you missing out on joining our online classes and I'm sure we can uncover some solutions.

My second point is to say that the situation we currently find ourselves in is incredibly tough, we will all have different reasons for feeling the strain, whether that is job loss or being a key worker rushed off your feet, learning to home school children and work from home, fighting illness yourself or supporting family. It is likely that many of us will find our mental health compromised and for that reason I feel it is incredibly important for us not only to exercise but to try to retain some of our regular routine. For that reason, I intend to keep the virtual class times similar to the in person classes. We have a fabulous community and I want you all to stay in contact and support one another.

My third part, and the information you came here for is below. I encourage you to read all of this post thoroughly, I cannot wait to continue bringing these classes to you!

What is the plan?

This update is long, and I apologise for that (I will try to film a video). I wanted to talk you all through my thought process and the issues I encountered coming up with this solution. Honestly, I never envisioned a time where I would have closed my business with immediate effect and I just wasn't prepared for the heartache it created. I do hope what I suggest seems exciting for you and provides you with a little glimmer of hope (or sweat).

Four week unlimited* class package

• £20 per person for up to 5 x 30 minute classes per week (*Kettlercise is only available if you have done one of my Kettlercise courses before). Works out to £1 per class/£1.25 per class if not including Kettlercise.
• £30 per household for up to 5 x 30 minute classes each per week (*Kettlercise is only available if you have done one of my Kettlercise courses before. All household members must be previous/existing customers).
• These are introductory prices and will end Friday 3rd April 2020.

The Timetable

The class timetable will remain as representative of the in person timetable as possible, offering the same benefits you've come to love about each class.

Monday's (including Easter Monday although times may vary with demand):

• 6:30pm - 7pm - Kettlercise
• 7:30pm - 8pm - HiiT

Wednesday's:

• 6:30pm - 7pm - Stretch & Strength
• 7:30pm - 8pm - Sculpt & Burn

Thursday's:

• 7pm - 7:30pm - Boxercise HIIT

I may add classes to the timetable depending on the demand, I may also need to reassess the timetable slots in a couple of weeks but I'm hoping the above times are convenient for most current attendees and closest to their regular routines.

I intend to leave the meetings open for 10-15 minutes after each class to allow you all to have a catch up and chat (you can leave if you want to) as I think this is an important part of our community network.

How will it work?

Many of you have helped me trial the classes this week. Yes we have had some teething issues but I have ruled them out my end, helped problem solve for a few of you (mainly internet strength or device) but please do bear in mind that the internet is under increased demand at the moment so we may need to have a plan B, reschedule (one attempt) or cancel the class (last resort), so with full transparency I encourage you to consider this before signing up. Even with teething issues members could follow along, had a good workout and felt those all important endorphins kick in! The last two sessions I ran have been AMAZING! So I do believe the package will offer you fantastic value for money.

You will need access to the internet and a device with a camera (smartphone/tablet/laptop etc) and either download the Zoom app or be able to open the meeting link in your web browser. It's so simple - I was so scared starting it but it is beginning to feel normal. I will happily arrange to test a meeting with anyone not sure of how it'll work.

Most of you have already completed the waiver form which is compulsory before attending a virtual class. If you have not yet completed it please do so. You only need to complete it once but if your circumstances change please inform me. 

Why a four week package?

Two reasons. Simplicity and commitment. 

One package for all means less admin for all, including me. You will not need to book onto each class, you will be given a link to the meeting room which will remain the same for each class for four weeks. This means that you can decide at short notice whether or not you can jump into the virtual class, perfect with many of you juggling everything from home at the moment.

Commitment is also vital right now... Motivation will begin to fade as the weeks go by and I need you guys to stay determined and strong so that when we can get back to classes you are raring to go. Remember that mental health affects people in different ways, it's important to feel committed to your routine to give your mental wellbeing a boost too.

It also allows me to plan financially. Having closed the business I have lost all my income and I still have business overheads to cover, which I cannot cancel if I wish to return to teaching when this ends. I have two options, try to make an online income to cover these costs or find alternative employment during the weeks/months I cannot teach you in person. I have thought long and hard about the fairest way to run this. I dismissed class passes because of admin and needing you to book each session. I decided against pay as you go as I would need to charge more to allow for the uncertainty of booking numbers. I thought about discounts for block booking but this became too complicated with 5 different classes on offer. In the end I decided four weeks to be the ideal combination (even once a week is just £5 per class). That being said, as I've already mentioned above, if you have been financially impacted by COVID-19, please get in touch, I know how hard it is. 

Will virtual classes continue?

I will reassess the situation continuously and extend the virtual class packages for as long as they remain viable and required. I have already had interest from those who have tried the classes this week in keeping them going once we return to in person classes - Let's see! I may add some virtual classes to the permanent timetable!

I know that was a VERY long post, I could have simply stated the package but feel you all deserve to understand the reasoning behind how it'll work. The package is only available to current or previous members and Fitness Quest would not have survived this far if it were not for all your amazing faces turning up over the years.

I promise you all when we are back, it's going to be amazing, but in the meantime, let's not stop the party.

To book your place at the introductory offer price available until Friday 3rd April please email info@fitnessquest.co.uk 

Prices as of 4th April expected to be £25 individual/£35 household but this is subject to change.

If you've read this far, give yourself a round of applause. See you next week.

Thank you so much.

Vicki

COVID-19 UPDATE - ALL CLASSES SUSPENDED AS OF 20TH MARCH 2020

IMPORTANT NOTICE

On Wednesday 18th March, just before the government announced school closures, I made the moral decision to close all of my in person classes for the foreseeable future. I have taken as many precautions over the past couple of weeks that I feel I could, such as enforcing hand washing, asking people to refrain from attending if they are poorly or if they have had contact with someone poorly, operating at a reduced capacity and planning classes to minimise contact with the floor and equipment (unless you bring your own).

Therefore, my final class until further notice will be held on Thursday 19th March 2020.

This has been an extremely difficult and stressful time for all of us and I would like to thank you all for your continued support. I sincerely hope that as a global community we can overcome this pandemic as soon as possible and we will return as soon as it is safe to do so.

In the meantime, I hope to start streaming online classes for my existing members from week commencing 23rd March - I will update as soon as possible, but please ensure you are following on Facebook to received the updates as soon as I have them.

If you have paid for a current or upcoming course/block, I have automatically paused your classes as of 20th March 2020 and all remaining classes will be available to you as soon as we can return to in person classes, I hope this is ok with you all. Please contact me if you have any questions.

March and April Class Timetable (COVID-19 Update) - SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Coronavirus Update:

UPDATED 19TH MARCH 2020 - AS OF FRIDAY 20TH MARCH 2020 CLASSES ARE SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE - COURSES WILL RESUME WHEN WE CAN RETURN SAFELY.

As of Friday 13th March 2020 there are currently no plans to cancel the running of any Fitness Quest Classes but please be aware that as my classes are held at local schools, should the government decide it is in the safety of the public to close them, classes will need to be postponed. In the meantime, please continue to book courses and attend classes but ensure you follow some of the advice set out below. Should I need to postpone classes, please be assured that either alternative arrangements will be made (online options) or courses will resume as soon as we have a venue again.

What you can do to help me...

Please ensure you follow the instructions below until further notice:

1. Please wash your hands before and after classes, preferably at the venue (mandatory at Boxercise).
2. Please do not touch your face during classes, consider wearing sweat bands and bring a towel.
3. Please clean any equipment you bring to class (gloves, mats, bottles, kettlebells) after each use thoroughly and help me to keep the venue/equipment at class clean.
4. Avoid contact with each other (high 5's).
5. If you sneeze or cough, please do this into a tissue and then dispose of in the toilet and wash your hands. 
6. If you are feeling ill, please refrain from attending class. Please also avoid class if you have been near anyone else displaying respiratory symptoms.

What I am doing to protect you and the community...

1. I have put the above recommendations in place and am closely following the COVID-19 Government Advice, therefore please kindly follow these steps.
2. I have adapted the way I plan classes and personal training to minimise contact with equipment and surfaces.
3. Any equipment I do bring to class is to be cleaned before and after class and thoroughly steam cleaned by me at home.
4. I will also be washing my hands before and after classes.

This is an unpredictable and worrying time for us all. Please help to support each other and take responsibility where possible. I am doing all I can to ensure in the worst case scenario you all have access to some Fitness Quest fun, to enable me to continue to do this I also require the ongoing support of my lovely Fitness Quest Family.

I thank you all in advance during the coming weeks, any updates will be posted on the Fitness Quest Facebook page, so please ensure you are following that. They will also be posted on this website, of which you can subscribe to receive updates to the right of this page. Please share this message with any of your friends who attend classes.

March and April Fitness Classes

Classes available include Boxercise, HIIT, Kettlercise, PiYO, Sculpt & Burn are listed below in alphabetical order. 

Please ensure you arrive on time for the class you are attending. The warm up ensures you have safely prepared yourself for exercise and without this you could be putting yourself at risk of injury or medical complications. If you are more than 5 minutes late you may be refused the right to participate, without refund.

Epiphany Car Park

Please could everyone who parks their car at Epiphany Primary school for classes ensure they DO NOT drive out of the entrance when they leave. There have been some very near misses as people driving into the entrance or pedestrians crossing it are not expecting a vehicle to be exiting through it. If you need directions to the exit please ask at class.

BOXERCISE

Thursday:

• Current course finishes 23rd April 2020. SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO CORONAVIRUS.
• 8 week course due to start Thursday 30th April 2020 - 18th June 2020 SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO CORONAVIRUS, 7pm - 8pm at Muscliff Primary School, Broadway Lane, BH8 0AB. New members £68* (cost includes your gloves and wraps), returning members £48**


* New members: early bird price of £60 applies to payments made before 16th April 2020).
**Returning members: early bird price of £40 applies to payments made before 16th April 2020).


Email info@fitnessquest.co.uk to book at the early bird price.

Boxercise is a fantastic class based on the training techniques boxers use. Each one hour class can burn up to 800 calories toning every muscle of your body! A great all round class that will work every aspect of your fitness goals; from fat loss to increasing fitness, and improving strength & stamina!

Boxercise is suitable for all fitness levels, both men and women and is for all ages (16+).

Fitness Quest Boxercise combines a cardiovascular warm up, followed by a combination of circuit stations, body weight exercises, various weighted equipment (kettlebells/medicine balls), challenges and lots of punching focus pads - The sessions vary every week to keep it fresh and effective!

HIIT

Mondays 7:40pm - 8:10pm at Epiphany School, BH9 3PE. No classes on Bank Holidays. £6 pay as you go, £30 for six consecutive weeks, £24 for six consecutive weeks (Kettlercise members). SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO CORONAVIRUS.

Visit our bookwhen page to book your place.

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is always in the media for its fat burning and body shaping benefits, and I've always incorporated it into many of my classes. Usually combined with my bootcamps or as a part of my popular sculpt and burn class, I've now decided to give HIIT its own slot on my timetable. I offer varying difficulty levels to adapt to all fitness ranges, so each and every one of you can work to your own ability. Performing body weight exercises, you can choose the high impact or low impact options and everyone will leave having had a great workout. It's also only a 30 minute class, so a great option for anyone looking for a quick blast.

There are varying price scales, pay as you go for those who can't commit to attending each week, block booking for those who can and a further discount for anyone who already attends Kettlercise and wants to stay on for the double! 

KETTLERCISE

Monday:

• Current course finishes 23rd March 2020. SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO CORONAVIRUS.
• Six week course starts 30th March - 11th May 2020 SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO CORONAVIRUS, 6:30pm-7:30pm, Epiphany Primary School, Muscliff, BH9 3PE, £36. Early bird price of £30 applies to payments made in full before 16th March 2020.

Kettlercise® covers a huge range of 37 kettlebell exercises ranging from basic moves to more advanced techniques, from high energy pulse raises to being able to place extra emphasis on target muscle groups like abs, glutes, arms and thighs and all with maximum effectiveness. It will not only destroy unwanted body fat but completely shape your body!

PiYO

PiYo is a group fitness class inspired by Pilates and Yoga. It's a full body workout designed to improve your strength and flexibility. Although inspired by Pilates and Yoga, forget everything you know about these techniques... PiYo is a whole new format in it's own right. I've never taught anything quite like it, you can certainly feel it challenging your muscles in ways you've never felt them work before! Putting together our PiYo poses, we are constantly flowing from one move to another, ensuring you don't stay still. This makes PiYo not only great for strength and flexibility but also calorie burn (there will be lots of sweat)!

During a PiYo live class, we'll complete a series of tracks such as a warm up, heat building, lower body, full body fusion etc. All of these tracks are done to an upbeat soundtrack, so no whale music, as lovely as it is ;-) It's all low impact (with the option to add in a few jumps), and involves no weights, just your own body. 

• 8 week course starts Wednesday 25th March 2020 - 13th May 2020 SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO CORONAVIRUS, 6:30pm 7:30pm, Epiphany Primary School, Muscliff, BH9 3PE, £48. Book here.

Please email info@fitnessquest.co.uk to book.

For more information on PiYo, including my FAQ's please click here.

SCULPT & BURN (SMALL GROUP TRAINING - 10 PLACES ONLY)

This is a brand new concept, devised by myself and it will target both muscle toning and strength as well as calorie burning HIIT exercises. The class will be limited to 10 exclusive places which will allow me to bring along a variety of weighted equipment giving the class a bootcampy feel and getting even better muscle sculpting and calorie burning results. The course will also offer exclusive use of the body composition scales on weeks one and eight.

You will still get a few rounds of HIIT (high intensity interval training) in each class followed by a variety of strength and conditioning exercises which vary weekly. Combining these two types of training styles will maximise all round results. This class is ideal for those with a moderate to high fitness level and people looking for a physical challenge.

• 8 week course starts Wednesday 25th March 2020 - 13th May 2020 SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO CORONAVIRUS, 7:35pm - 8:20pm, Epiphany Primary School, Muscliff, BH9 3PE, £48. FULLY BOOKED.

Please email info@fitnessquest.co.uk to book.

BOOKING INFORMATION

Course places must be booked in advance and your place can only be held once payment in full has been received. Bookings are non refundable and non transferrable. Standard prices (non early birds) can be booked via our bookwhen page.

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch:

info@fitnessquest.co.uk 07791 605150