<span style="color: #222222;">In Maharashtra, gyms and fitness centres would re-open from 25th of this month. Making this announcement, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray said that the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will have to be strictly followed. Mr. Thackeray held a meeting via video conference with the representatives of gyms and fitness centres today.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The State government has, however, not accorded permission to steam bath, sauna and shower. Besides, forms of group exercises like Zumba and Yoga will remain suspended as per the SOP. He said, precautions will have to be taken to see that health issues do not arise when gyms and fitness centres are re-opened.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The Chief Minister said, the onus of adhering to the SOP will be on the owners of gyms and fitness centres, and if there is any laxity on their part, strict action will be taken against them. The SOP lays special emphasis on maintaining physical distance, washing hands and wearing masks. In addition to this, spraying disinfectant after every one hour is a must in the gyms and fitness centres. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">It further says that equipment in the gyms will have to be kept at appropriate distance. The owners will also have to ensure that the entire area is fully disinfected before it is closed at night.</span><br />