The City of Greater Bendigo was processing permits for 16 gyms and fitness group operators at the close of last week.

Facilities coordinator Amy Johnston said inquiries had been steady and spread out across a number of sites.

"There is still plenty of open space available in the city to be booked, so we continue to encourage groups to get in contact so we can help them," Ms Johnston said.

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Roller derby is usually a full-contact sport, but Dragon City Roller Derby knew a return to play in COVID-safe environment was likely to look different for some time.

Spokesperson Bianca Stapleton said the club had been considering other ways to keep fit while being on skates.

"A lot of our members have been skating outdoors," Ms Stapleton said.

She said the club had noticed a slight increase in interest in skating, as members became more visible in the community.

Dragon City Roller Derby had contacted the council about the possibility of booking a space for an activity like a learn to skate program.

Ms Stapleton said discussions were still in the early stages.

"We're putting the feelers out because we need to have the program from Skate Victoria before we can go with anything," she said.

Mick Talbot has been operating his business, Achieve It Health and Fitness, from Weeroona Oval for almost 10 years.

"I've got a booking and have had one for some time," Mr Talbot said.

His latest application to book outdoor recreational space for his business seemed unaffected by any demand COVID-19 restrictions might have prompted from gym and fitness groups.

"The process itself has been the same," Mr Talbot said.

Bookings came up for renewal every six months.

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The City of Greater Bendigo waived its fees and charges for hiring outdoor space until January 1, to make it easier for businesses to get back on their feet.

Ms Johnston said groups had been placed in spaces in White Hills, Strathfieldsaye, Huntly, Maiden Gully, North Bendigo, and the Bendigo CBD.

Mr Talbot has been able to offer services at reduced capacity during most of the pandemic, with businesses like his able to raise the number of participants in each session from two to ten under the latest restrictions.

Mr Talbot more than doubled the number of sessions his business offered to keep afloat when only two participants were allowed.

He felt for the city's gym operators, who had been unable to open their doors.