Fantastic news for independent UK Martial arts – Government guidance has been clarified and we now have definitive definitions to ‘hang our hats on’.

What just happened?

Good question. Take a look at our post from just a few hours ago to get a better understanding of what led us to this point today.

How does the new rules and restrictions affect martial arts?

Materially, it doesn’t. We can’t see any changes to rulings in the updated guidance that will conflict with the ‘rule of 6’ exemptions that martial arts clubs have already successfully negotiated through.

Crucially, here is the official guidance on this from the UK Government;

3.15 Can I still participate in sport and physical activity in groups of more than 6?

Adults can continue to take part in outdoor organised sport and licensed physical outdoor activity in groups of more than six, provided it is organised by a national governing body, club, registered instructor/coach, business or charity; and/or involve someone who has received an official license to use equipment relevant to the activity. In all cases, the organiser must conduct a risk assessment and ensure compliance with COVID-19 Secure guidance.

You should only be playing outdoor team sports and partaking in outdoor physical activity where the relevant governing body has published guidance on how to do so safely, and you can play outdoors. See a list of team sports governing bodies which have developed guidance. Other outdoor sports or licensed outdoor physical activities may also be permitted if this is formally organised by a sports club or similar organisation and following sports-governing body guidance.

For adults, outdoor organised exercise classes can still take place in groups larger than six. When participating in any exempted activity like this, you must not mingle in groups of more than 6 before and after the activity. You should always ensure you socially distance from people you do not live with (or have formed a support bubble with) wherever possible.

From 24 September, organised indoor sport and indoor exercise classes can continue to take place with larger numbers present, provided groups of more than six do not mix. If groups of six are likely to mix, these indoor activities must not go ahead. There is an exemption or organised indoor team sports for disabled people.

The relevant indoor sport facilities guidance or outdoor guidance must be followed for these activities. Organised Sport and Physical Activity events are allowed provided they follow guidance for the public on the phased return of outdoor sport and recreation in England. All supervised activities for under 18s, including sports and exercise groups, indoors and out, are permitted where a risk assessment has been carried out. This should follow guidance on out of school settings.

Other forms of exercise must only take place in groups of six unless everyone is from the same household or support bubble.

When playing sports informally (where not organised in line with the rules above) with people you don’t live with, you must limit the size of your group to 6. It is illegal to do so in a larger group and you may be fined.

The key points to extrapolate from the above are that indoor sports can continue in groups greater than 5. Crucially, there does not appear to be a limit on adults in this as was initially expected. The list of approved governing bodies referenced is not applicable as this relates to team sports, which martial arts is not.

For now the guidance remains per the official updates provided a few weeks ago remain. You should be ensuring contact is not permitted and that social distancing is properly enforced at all times. Full guidance and support is provided from BMABA to help you run a ‘Covid Secure’ and professional, safe class. Learn more.

We are providing additional guidance and support exclusively for our members in MyBMABA. You can join us for free for 6 months if you would like to access our resources and COVID support.