IPOH: Residents here are finding ways to keep fit and stay safe, despite the easing of restrictions on several sports and recreational activities for the fully vaccinated.

       Perak moved into the second phase of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) early last month which allowed for some forms of relaxation of restrictions for recreational tasks.

       However, most folk still prefer to exercise on their own or play sports with physical distance to avoid catching the Covid-19 virus.

       Factory worker Mohd Zabidi Mohd Yusoff, for instance, preferred to go fishing at a less crowded area.

       He would fish along the Kinta river where there is hardly anyone, unlike some disused mining pools which tend to be crowded, said Mohd Zabidi, 53.

       “Although the government has relaxed the SOP, we must think about our own health, and that of people around us,” he said while fishing for catfish along the river yesterday.

       On Sunday, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced that Covid-19 restrictions would be eased for those who have been fully vaccinated for states under Phase Two and above of the NRP.

       Sports without physical contact and recreational activities would be allowed from 6am to 10pm at outdoor and semi-indoor areas.

       Housewife Lee Chew Lan, 44, said she used to hike up Kledang Hill daily prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

       “However, these days I usually only hike up three times a week (to minimise interaction with others),” she said.

       Although she would be accompanied by two other friends, she said they would keep their distance.

       “And we try to pick a time when there are fewer people around,” she added.

       Technician S. Kumar, 57, who enjoys playing badminton, said it was good to have the chance to play again.

       “But as a precaution, I usually just play badminton in front of my house with my family to practise my skills and keep fit,” he added.

       Cycling enthusiast Amirul Aridi, 26, said he preferred cycling alone.

       “I just cannot sit at home, watch TV, eat and sleep, especially on my off days, I need some form of physical activity to keep fit and healthy.”

       The automotive engineer believes that many other people are opting for solo sports activities to be on the safe side.

       “You can see people walking, jogging or carrying out other physical activity on their own,” he added.

       Perak state junior Muay Thai athletes Mohammad Rifdean Masdor and Muhammad Amirul Adli Saleemeha, both 19, live near the Sultan Abdul Aziz Recreational Park (Polo Ground) which is a popular site for exercise buffs.

       Both teenagers would go there for their jogs or practise their Muay Thai moves.

       “Muay Thai requires physical contact, so we have not been able to practise in a group. To avoid forgetting our moves, we will practise separately,” Rifdean said.

       Muhammad Amirul said being confined indoors was stressful, especially for athletes like him who required daily training.

       “But at the same time, we need to ensure the SOP is followed, as the last thing we want is a sports cluster,” he added.