Tendring District Council

11/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/08/2024 03:49

Council opens new active outdoor gym in Holland on Sea thanks to National Lottery funding from Sport England

Tendring District Council (TDC) has launched a new active outdoor gym in Holland-on-Sea thanks to National Lottery funding from Sport England.

The inclusive facility, next to the York Road Car Park and Picnic Area, has been installed after TDC was awarded £70,000 of National Lottery funding from Sport England through Place Partnership.

The grant has allowed TDC to provide a specially designed inclusive gym, offering opportunities for residents who may be at risk of falls, or requiring rehabilitation to build strength, to improve balance and gain confidence.

Users also have access to the free Kompan Outdoor Fitness app. This digital personal trainer and exercise guide shows users of all fitness levels how to use the equipment and helps keep them motivated on their fitness journey.

Set in a beautiful outdoor space close to the seafront, residents can use the facility at any time, and it is hoped that health and fitness professionals will bring people to the site for group sessions.

Open - the new active outdoor gym in York Road, Holland-on-Sea. Image: TDC / Georgia Wadling

Councillor Gina Placey, TDC Cabinet Member for Partnerships, said she is delighted that the new gym has been opened.

"We are delighted to have secured this investment which means we can provide this specially designed active outdoor gym that will help our residents keep fit and maintain their independence," she said.

"Regular exercise has many physical benefits, but being outdoors in the natural environment can also improve emotional wellbeing.

"Although the equipment is suitable for all ages and abilities, it is designed with the fitness needs of older people in mind.

"Those at risk of falls, or requiring rehabilitation, need outdoor exercise equipment that improves their ability to perform daily tasks such as walking on uneven surfaces, navigating steps and stairs or grabbing a lost key on the floor.

"We are committed to working with our partners to improve our residents' quality of life and would like to thank Sport England and everyone who plays the National Lottery, we wouldn't be able to do this without you."

Cllr Mick Barry tries out the Active Outdoor Gym. Image: TDC/Georgia Wadling

The contract for the active outdoor gym was awarded to Kompan Ltd, whose Stay Fit range has been developed in collaboration with experts and users to ensure its quality and durability.