Orillia studying outdoor gym
Public invited to give it a try on Monday
Posted By BY SARA ROSS, THE PACKET AND TIMES
Posted 2 years ago
From afar, it may seem odd to see adults on bright, multicoloured steel equipment in what looks like a children's playground.
With a closer look, however, it becomes clear the adults are exercising on outdoor gym equipment.
Orillia's parks and recreation department will hold a demonstration Monday for residents to come out and try the equipment.
"We want people to give us feedback on this equipment before we buy it," said Paul Barnetson, the department's marketing co-ordinator.
Six pieces of equipment will be set up from 11 a. m. to 2 p. m. at Pavilion 2 in Couchiching Beach Park. Barnetson said the equipment, which comes from Green- Gym, a company based in Nova Scotia, may include an air walker and leg press, but he is not sure what other pieces of equipment will be on hand.
"It works with your own resistance," he explained. "With the air walker, you would do a glide like you're skiing."
Barnetson said it hasn't been decided where in the city the equipment will go. "It could be near the waterfront overlooking the lake, or maybe off a trail system," he said.
The cost to the city will depend on the equipment chosen.
The outdoor gym will be free of charge and won't require a dress code.
"People could come on their lunch break," Barnetson said. "It can be used anytime, even in the winter if it's clear of snow."
Barnetson said he hopes the equipment will encourage people to begin an active lifestyle.
"It would be great if we could make Orillia the most active city in Canada."
Topic guidelines: We welcome your thoughts, stories and information related to this article.
Please stay on topic and be respectful of others. Keep the conversation appropriate for interested readers.
