It is no secret that today we live in a world of unparalleled convenience and comfort that we often take for granted. In fact, our modern society allows us luxury that would cause even the most wealthy kings and queens of old to turn green with envy. Despite having so many things readily available and easily accessible, one of the things that still remains elusive is instilling a desire for physical exercise.
One of the most commonly known but not commonly talked about problems we face is obesity and how good diet and exercise can not only combat obesity but can also be one of the most powerful tools available for mood boosting. Even with advancements in mood altering pharmaceuticals, a basic and natural approach that includes regular exercise can often be the most effective way for many people to overcome chronic mental health conditions.
In an ideal world, everyone would have ready access and ability to spend some time at a gym every. Unfortunately, financial as well as location based obstacles exist for many people. One of the cures for this is for communities to invest in outdoor fitness equipment.
Anyone Can Access Outdoor Fitness Equipment
The first, and definitely the most initially obvious, benefit that can be provided by community outdoor fitness equipment is the readily available and easily accessed equipment for working out. If the equipment is stationary and always available for use, one of the barriers of entry is removed by not costing any money to access.
It Helps Build a Sense of Community
In addition to the obvious ease of access, another massive benefit is the communal nature of having outdoor equipment available to members of the community. Often times, a great deal of time is spent indoors, and few people get to know their neighbors. This is especially true in densely populated cities. Having outdoor fitness equipment available for public use helps offer a space for members of a given community to spend time bettering themselves and getting to know one another.
It has been shown in various studies that one of the benefits of physical fitness and maintaining a healthy body is a decrease in depression. Community-based outdoor fitness equipment not only offers a space to get your body healthy, but interacting with members of the community you live in can also combat deep loneliness which affects many people and contributes to depression and anxiety.
It Can Help Train Emergency Service Workers
Many emergency service workers such as firefighters and emergency medical technicians would also derive great benefits from having a community-based outdoor fitness area. Many of these individuals face adverse weather on a regular basis. While training in a gym is certainly fantastic, offering an outdoor space can give these vital members of the community a realistic setting to exercise and prepare themselves for service.
It Can Be Used By Parents and Children Alike
Additionally, many of the pieces of equipment bear a close resemblance to outdoor play equipment often found at playgrounds for children. This can increase the number of community members that can benefit from outdoor equipment. Parents and children alike can get great use from the equipment and further strengthen not only their bodies but their ties to the community that they reside within.
Key Takeaway
The benefits from installing outdoor fitness equipment in your community are vast and can perhaps even be instrumental to bringing your community together and strengthening ties for life.
