Published March 15, 2016 at 12:22
A new, free outdoor gym is being installed in Victoria Park in Haslingden.
The gym, which will be located at the end of the path by the main entrance, will feature 6 pieces of equipment designed to exercise different parts of the body to provide a full workout. A board with full instructions will also be installed. The gym is free for all park users to use.
The idea for an outdoor gym came from the Friends of Victoria Park Group, who have provided some of the funding. The main funding has come from a grant from the Rossendale Up and Active project, with Rossendale Council providing the remaining funds.
Research suggests that providing outdoor gym equipment helps to increase physical activity and reduces some of the barriers to taking part in exercise. Providing free and accessible equipment in a pleasant natural environment helps to motivate people to exercise.
The equipment is being installed by play equipment company Wicksteed, who won the tender to install the gym and is due to be installed by early April.
Councillor Alyson Barnes, leader of Rossendale Council, said:
“Our parks are a great facility for people in Rossendale and the outdoor gym in Victoria Park will be a great addition to the park, enabling people to exercise for free in lovely surroundings.”