SA launches free, guided outdoor exercise program
Lead researcher Dr Alyson Crozier says they hope the fitness programs will make exercise more accessible while also encouraging social connectivity, particularly for older adults.
A new program by Adelaide University, in collaboration with the City of Salisbury, is hoping to transform how older people interact with outdoor gyms.
Supported by the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing, the program will see local volunteer fitness guides stationed at different outdoor gyms to facilitate a welcoming and social environment, so that they can be more accessible to people who may feel excluded from traditional gym environments – particularly those aged 50 or above.
Kicking off this week, the program will see 15 trained local volunteers stationed at four outdoor gyms across the City of Salisbury – RM Williams Drive Reserve, Canterbury Drive Reserve, AGH Cox Reserve and Happy Home Reserve – to help people learn how to use the equipment safely and confidently.
Lead researcher Dr Alyson Crozier said the program addresses the need for greater physical activity and stronger social connectivity.
“Physical inactivity is a major issue in Australia, with only one in three older people meeting recommended exercise guidelines,” Dr Crozier said.
“For many – particularly older adults – there are real barriers to traditional exercise, whether it’s cost, confidence or simply not knowing where to start.
“Outdoor gyms offer a free and accessible option but installing them isn’t enough. That’s where this program can make a difference.”
Volunteers will be on-site at RM Williams Drive Reserve and Canterbury Drive Reserve on Tuesdays from 28 April to 30 June, AGH Cox Reserve on Wednesdays until 1 July and at Happy Home Reserve on Thursdays until 2 July.
Dr Crozier said that by offering regular, supported and welcoming fitness sessions “delivered by members of the community for members of the community,” the research team hopes more people will get out and be active.
“At the same time, we’re also hoping to build a sense of belonging, which is often just as important as physical exercise,” she said.
Researchers will track participation and gather feedback on the program’s impact on physical and social wellbeing, and it is hoped that if successful, it can be rolled out across other councils and communities as a low-cost, high-impact approach to public health.
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