BBC bosses slash rehearsal time for Strictly Come Dancing contestants in attempt to stop tempers fraying following bullying scandal

For two decades, Strictly’s contestants have endured grueling long days in the rehearsal studio, straining to ensure their Saturday night routines are perfect.

But now The Mail on Sunday can reveal that, following the bullying scandal that engulfed the programme, BBC bosses have banned couples from exercising for more than six hours at a time, in a bid to stop exhaustion fraying tempers.

A show insider said: ‘We hope this will create a better environment for the celebrities, in the wake of all the abuse claims. It is generally accepted that the long hours are not helpful and are often the cause of outbursts and fits of rage.

‘The new rules mean that most couples will now start earlier in the morning and finish in the early afternoon, meaning everyone is much less tired.’

According to insider sources, the new rules will mean training will have to be split into two separate slots with ‘significant time in between’ (Picture: Toyah Willcox and Neil Jones)

However, other sources say concerns have been raised that without the training time, celebs will not meet the high standards of previous years (photo Sam Quek)

Strictly speaking, sources say the new rules mean that if competitors want to practice for longer, they will have to split their training into two shifts and take a ‘significant’ break in between.

Another source added: ‘You have some competitors who are determined to win and who will train and train and train.

And while that is to be welcomed, it causes fatigue and frustration, which is not always positive.’

However, insiders say the new regime will raise concerns that celebrities will not reach the same high standards as before, widening the gap between amateur dancers and the more experienced ones.

Last week, Love Island’s Tasha Ghouri and former boy band star JB Gill – both with professional dance experience – topped the leaderboard, with scores of 30 and 31 respectively.

On the plus side, another show insider says it will reduce the chance of the ‘Strictly curse’ striking, with fewer chances of late-night drinks and dinners testing celebrity loyalty.

The move also means the BBC will not have to pay overtime to its new supervisors, who are now attending rehearsals.

Last year, pro dancer Graziano Di Prima was fired after kicking Zara McDermott in frustration during rehearsals. He later apologized.

The results of a five-month investigation into actress Amanda Abbington’s claims that her pro partner, Giovanni Pernice, bullied her – which he denies – are expected within a fortnight.