ECCLES REC GETS NEW STATE OF THE ART GYM EQUIPMENT AND IT'S PRETTY AMAZING

A state of the art gym where mobile phones control equipment and provide workout feedback has opened in a Salford park.

The £65,000 outdoor gym is the first of its kind in Greater Manchester and includes equipment suitable for wheelchair users. 

The equipment, which includes a cross trainer and stationery bike, pull down bars, an arm cycle, step up and workout points, sits on top of a rubber safety surface at Eccles Recreation Ground (known as Eccles Rec), off Oxford Street. It replaces a previous gym on the site.

Funding for the project came from the government’s levelling up parks fund and will also pay for tree planting to create more shade and habitats for wildlife in the park.

Councillor Barbara Bentham, lead member for environment, neighbourhoods, sport and leisure, said:

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“The old gym was popular and the local community was keen for it to remain on the same site in the park.

“This equipment will help people who can’t afford gym fees to keep fit which is so important for both physical and mental health. It’s designed to be used just as it is or people can link their smartphones to it to change the resistance of the equipment, tailor the speed or get feedback on their workout. I hope it encourages more people to give it a try and reap the benefits of moving more.”

 

The tree planting, which will take place in winter, will see 42 new trees added to the park to create a double tree lined avenue. Among the trees which will be included are American sweetgums with colourful autumn foliage which attracts butterflies and moths and provides seeds for birds and squirrels.