These outdoor parks can be a better alternative for people who are not able to afford gyms, offering a free and open space to stay active. Addressing the drawbacks of these spaces through proper guidelines, maintenance, and community awareness can further enhance their impact and safety.
Cons of outdoor gyms
For someone diving deep into the fitness world, needs personalized workouts, or is a beginner, the best option is to join a gym with an instructor as well as a dietician. Outdoor gyms are not ideal for a beginner or a fitness enthusiast. Panjim-based Sarvesh Naik said, “I work out every day. I don’t use this park equipment because I go to the gym every day morning and evenings I go for walks in this park.” He further added, “These are basic equipment in the park. In the gym, workouts are more structured, targeting specific muscle groups like biceps, legs, chest, and more. “There are many health hazards if you are working out on ill-maintained equipment,” says Brinda Prabhudesai on her walk at Joggers Park, Altinho, Panjim.
Guidelines for using outdoor gyms
Public workout spaces do not bring a complementary fitness instructor or a dietician. Hence, having a thorough understanding of fitness as well as diets is essential before you start using one of these equipment. Rajesh Varma, a fitness enthusiast in Panjim, said, “People can use these workout equipment once they do their research and have proper knowledge about fitness. Unless they have that knowledge, working out won’t prove to be very effective.” Dipali Gulkarni said, “You would always need a fitness instructor and dietician when you are a fresher; later on, it is exciting if you combine both indoor and outdoor workouts.”
These spaces can benefit a wide range of individuals, especially those who cannot afford a gym membership, by encouraging physical activity and fostering a sense of community. While public outdoor gyms offer a cost-effective and accessible alternative to indoor gyms, their effectiveness largely depends on proper maintenance, supervision, and adherence to safety guidelines. Education, regular upkeep, and expert supervision will come in handy.
Effectiveness of
outdoor Gyms
Modern indoor gyms are not always affordable for everyone. Outdoor gyms, on the other hand, are freely available for people and can help them create a healthy life with no cost. Additionally, they promote a sense of community, encouraging social interactions and group workouts. Norbert D’Souza, owner of a gym in Panjim, said, “When it comes to workouts, there is no such thing as indoor or outdoor; any physical activity at a required level daily is good for your body.” He further added, “Outdoor gyms are a great way to break free from the routine of going to the same gym, with the same environment and people.”
Outdoor gyms through a medical lens
"I have many patients who come with injuries from doing unsupervised workouts in public parks. The most common injuries are rotator cuff, tendinitis, knee strain, and lower back strains,” said Dr. Michelle D’Souza, a consultant physiotherapist, Panjim. According to her, seasoned gym-goers as well as the geriatric population (65 years and older) should be mindful of their form of exercises to not get injured and attain their fitness goals safely and sustainably. Working out in an outdoor park without supervision by an expert is detrimental to your health. “Any workout has to be guided by someone aware of the form of the exercise, whether you do it in a gym or a park with no resistance,” she further added.