NHS
Working in partnership with Birmingham Mind, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust developed a pioneering approach to services, and part of that vision was to provide patients with an outdoor gym, supporting their rehabilitation.
Rookery Gardens is a facility that supports people who have been detained under the Mental Health Act to move towards rehabilitation back into the community.
As part of this recovery programme, regular exercise is essential, and the trust approached Fresh Air Fitness to supply and install an outdoor gym that would allow patients to incorporate more exercise into their routine. Improving fitness, confidence and mental health.
Understanding the enormous benefits of regular exercise to positive mental health, the trust wanted the gym to be accessible to all patients, from complete beginners to those who already exercise regularly.
The gym needed to be located in the right environment so that people would enjoy using it, feel safe and not self-conscious.
The budget was fixed and so the project needed to meet the required criteria within budget.
The installation team needed to work within the secure area, meeting all requirements; ensuring they kept themselves, staff and patients safe at all times.
Fresh Air fitness successfully installed a 4-piece outdoor gym set within beautiful gardens and suitable for all abilities. The new outdoor gym provides a mix of cardio and strength building equipment, all similar in look to traditional equipment you’d find in an indoor gym.
The Combi, Chest Press and Pull Down Challenger provide upper body strength building and definition. Taking 30% of the users body weight, these offer a strenuous work out, but one that patients could develop quickly, increasing reps and even adding bands to increase the resistance.
An Elliptical Cross Trainer and Bike from the cardio range, to improve heart health and burn calories. In addition pedalling helps improve cognitive function, memory, mood and attention. Used regularly, patients will find they sleep better, reduce stress and anxiety levels while improving their health and endurance.
Finally, a Seated Leg Press, a multi-user piece that can be used in twos or individually. Building strength and definition along the legs, with the possibility to add resistance bands when strength has developed.
The gym is positioned in a beautiful tree lined grassed area within the grounds of the trust. Designed to feel sheltered and safe, ensuring everyone has enough personal space while they use it.
Patients now have the opportunity to work out in a stunning environment, and in the fresh air, supporting the improvement of their physical and mental health.
Patients can use the outdoor gym on a 1-2-1 bases with staff, join group classes or workout in their free time alone or with others.
Mood enhancing and confidence building, the gym will make a hugely positive impact to all those who use it regularly.
In addition, when patients leave the trust, they will have access to Fresh Air Fitness gyms in parks across the UK. They’ll be confident in using the equipment, giving them the opportunity to continue using it as part of their new routine.
Fresh Air Fitness were very good. Good communication with staff throughout. Installation guys very friendly and helpful.
MR WALKER, SENIOR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST, BIRMINGHAM AND SOLIHULL NATIONAL HEALTH TRUST
For Complete Peace of Mind
Safe, Fast and Fuss Free
Perfect for Individuals or Group Fitness
