Cumbria’s second lockdown has seen a surge in online fitness apps according to new research by fitness and leisure company Better.

Since all gyms and leisure centres in England closed as part of the second national lockdown, Better put its exercise programme online.

During the first week of lockdown Better saw that the Better Virtual Fitness Class and Better Exercise from Home ‘Ten Minute Abs’ was the nation’s favourite workout, followed by ‘Zumba’ and ‘Stretch for Relaxation'.

That 50 per cent more customers searched for online exercise classes, compared to the first week of the previous lockdown in March, and 15 per cent of customers chose mental health aiding classes including yoga, mindfulness and Tai Chi.

Tom Rice, Better manager for Cumbria said: “We know people in Cumbria really missed getting into their local leisure centre during the first lockdown and the same seems be the case during lockdown 2.0.

“Demand for Better’s online fitness offer has grown again and we want to meet our customers’ needs, whatever the circumstances.

“There’s now mounting evidence that looking after your overall health and managing your weight are key to boosting your immune system against the virus this winter.

“Now that dark and dank streets and parks are less attractive for exercise, online options from the comfort of your own home are picking up in popularity once more."