Barnet green gym promotes fitness and the great outdoors

A new initiative has been launched in Barnet to promote the benefits of heading outdoors and getting fit, and in the process help locals to get in fighting fit shape ahead of the flu season.

Today (September 11th) the first Green Gym is being launched at West Hendon Playing Fields by Conservation Volunteers, in partnership with Barnet Council.

Thereafter, the sessions will take place every Wednesday, with the organisers hoping that the initiative will help local people get fit and healthy while simultaneously improving the local environment, community parks and green spaces.

As well as getting in shape, gym goers will be planting trees, seeding wildflower meadows and creating habitats for wildlife. However, the organisers note that residents do not require knowledge of gardening, only the enthusiasm and passion to improve their local environment.

Councillor Robert Rams, Barnet Council’s cabinet member for customer access and partnerships, said he will be involved in the project and doing his bit to help improve West Hendon Playing Fields.

"It is fantastic to see an initiative such as the Green Gym in Barnet and I wish it every success in Barnet. I know that many in the borough are passionate about our park and green spaces," he added.

Chris Speirs, London health manager for Conservation Volunteers, said the Green Gym will be the first of its kind in Barnet and represents a free and fun way to get fit, learn new skills and meet new people.

"We hope to see as many people as possible come along and join in," he said - a sentiment backed up by project officer Gareth Chalmers.

He stated: "Green Gyms have not only been the catalyst to transform parks and green spaces, but have also become resilient social networks with people from all walks of life coming together to create a new community."

Published 11th September, 2013

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