HK's fitness industry introduces SafeFit100 with safety guidelines

After some COVID-19 confirmed cases among fitness enthusiasts, a not-for-profit body has been established to reassure the public that fitness and wellness facilities are safe to use. 

Initiated by members of the Hong Kong Alliance of Professional Fitness and Wellness Operators in conjunction with International Personal Trainers and Fitness Academy and the Hong Kong Alliance for Fitness and Wellness, SafeFit100 is an independent not-for-profit body governed by an independent
steering committee. It has been established to protect and serve the industry and the wider community amid the COVID-19 pandemic through the highest standards of professional, independent scrutiny and assessment to ensure safety.

SafeFit100 identifies facilities that have complied with stringent requirements, including distancing measures, capacity limits, air purification, staff testing, mask wearing and sanitisation. Additionally, SafeFit100 will review the measures in place from time to time in accordance with the development of the epidemic situation and will make suitable adjustments taking into account all relevant factors.

“SafeFit100 assures the government and policymakers that our industry has employed fastidious measures and procedures to reduce potential outbreaks, while prioritising the physical and mental well-being of our community and securing smooth business operations during the pandemic," said Colin Grant, co-founder and CEO of The PURE Group and chairman of the Hong Kong Alliance of Professional Fitness and Wellness Operators.

All fitness and wellness operators are invited to apply for SafeFit100. According to the steering committee, actions will be taken if operators breach the SafeFit100 requirements such as revoking the accreditation or informing the government for follow-up actions.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the fitness industry with many closures, and with the introduction of SafeFit100 we hope that it brings the very much needed assurance to our communities and to the Hong Kong government that we very much committed to setting much higher standards than those required of us in the fight against COVID-19," commented Tricia Yap, founder of Limitless Health and chair of the Hong Kong Fitness and Wellness Alliance.