LEICESTER’S outdoor gyms have now fully reopened across the city.
The gyms – which can be found at 32 city sites, in various parks and green spaces – had been closed off, in line with national guidance, to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The gyms feature equipment such as rowers, ski machines and chest presses. The aim is to aid aerobic, muscle-toning and strength-building activities for everyone – from exercise novices to committed gym users.
Signs are in place to remind people to practise social distancing while they use the equipment. You must also wipe down equipment before and after use, as you would in any gym, and ensure that only one person uses any piece of equipment at any one time. Whilst the gyms will be routinely cleaned, it is recommended that users wash or sanitise their hands before and after use.
Full rules for safe usage are online at leicester.gov.uk/outdoorgyms
Assistant city mayor for public health Cllr Vi Dempster said: “We know how important it is to encourage people to keep fit and active – now more than ever. We get good feedback from our outdoor gyms because people like to exercise outdoors - there’s good evidence that it can help to boost your mood as well as getting you fit.
“It’s also an easy way to build some physical activity into a simple, regular routine, without the need for a gym membership.”
Director of public health Professor Ivan Browne added: “If anyone is feeling cautious about returning to the gym, a visit to our outdoor facilities could be a good stepping stone.
“Keeping fit and healthy will help us all to fight coronavirus. Obviously people need to be sensible using the equipment and maintaining social distance, but with this in mind, I’m pleased that people will be able to enjoy using these facilities again.”
More information and videos of example workout routines can be found at leicester.gov.uk/outdoorgyms
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