A new digital platform has been launched to help gyms, pools and leisure facilities re-open safely.

Developed by digital specialist APEX1, Fit4Access has been designed to help facilities better safeguard against the risk of Covid-19 infection.

Facilities joining Fit4Access are asked to generate a Code of Conduct statement for their centre. This has been made easy with a range of templates for operators to choose from.

Operators will also get a media toolkit with a press release, radio and press adverts, videos, social media blogs and content for their website and member communications.

Members of the partaking facilities will then, in turn, be asked to complete the ukactive Health Commitment Statement and to declare they’re free of any COVID-19 symptoms, to get their Fit4Access pass.

"Members get an easy-to-access, easy-to-digest and well-presented set of guidelines specific to their facility," said APEX1 marketing director Gwilym Austin.

"It's reassuring for all members to know that everybody at their facility has done the same.

“Fit4Access also enables leisure facilities to keep members up-to-date about all their safety procedures, sets out what to expect when they return and ensures that people are reading the guidelines by issuing access passes."

The launch of Fit4Access coincided with gyms in England opening their doors for the first time in four months.

Figures from a ukactive study show that 88 per cent of gym members want to return to their facilities but are worried about how safe it is going to be.

British Weightlifting is one of the organisations utilising the new platform.

"We are working with Fit4Acess to bring weightlifters across the country back to the gym floor safely," said Ashley Metcalfe, British Weightlifting CEO.

"Getting members back safely is everyone’s main priority so we’re pleased to support initiatives like Fit4Access that can help to reassure people get back on the weights while staying safe.”

Richard Lamburn, head of facilities at Swim England, added: “Swim England are supportive of initiatives like this that look to build confidence amongst the public in returning to the water.

"Our detailed ‘Returning to the Pool’ guidance aims to support operators by providing comprehensive information to help them reopen swimming facilities, as safely as possible.

"We've worked with Fit4Access to ensure this guidance is incorporated into the Fit4Access platform, to enable the public to feel confident in returning to the activity they love, when they feel safe to do so.”