Free at last! Spaniards get outside to exercise after 49 days of lockdown

Joggers, cyclists and surfers across Spain hurried out their homes on Saturday, allowed to exercise outdoors for the first time in seven weeks as the government began easing tough coronavirus restrictions.

In Madrid, cyclists and skateboarders streamed along the city’s wide boulevards. Barcelona’s beachside was packed with runners, while surfers and paddle-boarders were out enjoying the waves.

The crowds could be a matter of concern for the authorities, who have stressed that the easing of restrictions must be cautious and for exercise, not socialising.

Hit by one of the world’s worst COVID-19 outbreaks, Spain imposed a strict lockdown in March, confining most of