ritish sport climber Shauna Coxsey spoke of the physical and mental health benefits provided by climbing centres and gyms on Tuesday as the British government warned of new coronavirus restrictions in the UK."It's paramount that we consider what sport means to people and how important that is when thinking about the bigger picture as well," said the 27-year-old. As infection rates in the UK continue to rise, Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggested that new restrictions could be brought in if increases continue.

Gyms, climbing centres and leisure facilities were all closed when the UK entered lockdown earlier this year. Speaking at a new climbing centre in Liverpool, Coxsey also said her rehab was going as planning following surgeries on one knee and one wrist over the summer. Looking ahead to the postponed Tokyo Olympic Games, due to take place next year, she said, "whether it happens or not, I'm going to train as hard as I can and be in the best possible shape for the Games until they tell me it's not happening or it's happening."