8 User calisthenics frame, with optional Accessible Parallel Bars attachment, provides multiple functional training opportunities the whole community can benefit from
18th September 2024
The Training Rig, part of the strength range, is an all-in-one piece of outdoor gym equipment designed to offer a full-body, weight-based, calisthenics workout for users with all levels of fitness. Designed to be used by 8 people at once, the Training Rig provides 6 workout stations and more than 80 exercise options.
Set within an area of 46m² it is a compact static calisthenics frame that makes the most out of a smaller outdoor space.
The Rig can be installed with accessibility features to create a fully inclusive exercise experience. There is also the potential to add training straps, punch bags and battle ropes to increase workout options and keep training fresh and varied in order to continuously challenge the body to build muscle and cardiovascular fitness.
Additionally, where more space is available, other complimentary products from the Fresh Air Fitness range can be installed alongside to make a larger and even more varied outdoor gym ‘zone’.
Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and is linked to many health benefits – such as lower blood pressure, weight management, and improved cardiovascular health. It is also associated with good bone and muscle health, which is essential for general strength and reduced risk of injury and falls.
Outdoor exercise is aligned with good mental health and wellbeing due to the benefits of fresh air, vitamin D and healthy social interactions. As we celebrate World Mental Health Day this month, increased consideration should be given to exercise and its links to health and wellbeing.
With the knowledge that wheelchair users, and people with reduced or limited mobility, often struggle to find accessible exercise options, the Fresh Air Fitness Research and Development team continually strive to create new and exciting additions to our existing accessible, outdoor gym range for parks and green spaces.
Inclusivity and accessibility should be an important consideration when selecting outdoor gym equipment to ensure that it meets the diverse needs of the whole community.
When considering accessibility, the Training Rig (which was a new addition to the Fresh Air Fitness range in 2023) is an excellent addition to an outdoor gym installation as it can easily be adapted to provide more options for wheelchair users.
This was recently achieved in the Hammersmith Park, Shepherds Bush Outdoor Gym Project where parallel bars were attached to the Training Rig to create a bespoke, accessible space -specifically designed with wheelchair users in mind.
Wide enough apart for easy access, these bars are also the optimal height to perform a variety of functional training exercises.
Bodyweight exercises using the Fresh Air Fitness wheelchair-accessible parallel bars can offer excellent fitness benefits for individuals with mobility challenges.
These exercises target the upper body and core muscles, promoting strength, stability and stamina without the need for specialised equipment.
One of the most beneficial exercise variations is the ‘seated dip’. By locating the wheelchair between the parallel bars, users can push themselves up using the arms, whilst simultaneously engaging the chest, shoulders, triceps and core muscle groups. This exercise develops upper body strength and functional independence, directly impacting daily activities such as moving in and out of a wheelchair with greater ease.
Another excellent exercise is the assisted push-up. This exercise is ideal for wheelchair users looking to increase upper body strength and stamina. The parallel bars provide a solid base to work on with focus on building strength at a steady pace.
Parallel bars also allow for standing exercises (with assistance if required), which are great for users looking to improve balance and gently engage the lower body. By using the bars for support, users can work on seated or partial squats, calf raises or leg lifts. This type of exercise gets the circulation going in the legs and builds on muscle tone.
Core exercises like ‘torso twists’ are effective using the parallel bars. Regular torso twists can improve core stability and balance, reduce back pain, strengthen muscles, improve posture and increase flexibility, too.
Since 2007, Fresh Air Fitness has been providing schools, colleges, universities, parks, and community spaces with sustainable and innovative outdoor gym solutions.
Our attractive, all-weather, easy-to-use equipment is an excellent way to encourage people to enjoy more physical activity with their friends for motivation. Regular exercise leads to happy, healthy communities.
With over 4,500 gyms installed nationwide to date, we provide an end-to-end service from initial site visit to design, delivery, and installation. We project-manage your outdoor gym plan from inception to completion and provide full after-sales care through our dedicated team of outdoor gym specialists. Read some of our success stories here.
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