The Fitness Industry Association (FIA) has announced the launch of new guidelines for its members who are looking to offer gym use and group exercise classes to under-18s.

Issues such as having appropriate insurance cover, risk assessment and marketing at young people are among those included in the new guidelines, as well as safeguarding measures.

The FIA also said its new guidelines will deal with the necessary training and qualifications needed to adapt exercise sessions to cater for children as part of mainstream adult classes.

SkillsActive, the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), Fit for Sport and the Chartered Institute of Sport and Recreation Management (CIMSPA) helped shape the guidelines.

FIA chief executive officer David Stalker said: "Over the last few years, the FIA have received more and more enquiries requesting information to allow children into gyms.

"Therefore, working in partnership with other experts we have launched a competent set of guidelines for our members who would like children to take part in their gym based activities."

Details: www.fia.org.uk

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