You know the ones – those outdoor gyms at the park that you sometimes see kids hanging off, trying to figure out how the hell they work. Well we’re just as perplexed as those kiddies, so instead of trying to flail around on the equipment and absolutely embarrassing ourselves in public, we decided to get some hot tips on how to get the most out of these calisthenics playgrounds. Because, free gym? Yes please.
Cardio? I hardly know her.
That means start with cardio, or something to get your heart rate up. Jump on a bike or a rowing-type contraption, and get that burn going. If there’s nothing around that you can use for cardio in the park gym then guess what, there’s plenty of space to go for a quick jog. Just like an indoor gym that people pay for, do your cardio in intervals so you don’t hurt yourself. Push it until you feel a good burn, but not to the point of actual pain.
Get That D.
You heard me. These park gyms are great for getting yourself some precious Vitamin D while you’re having a sweat sesh. It’s like the perfect combo of working on that tan (safely, mind you. Please make sure you use sun protection) while also working out your bod. Vitamin D is also super beneficial for our bones, because it helps us regulate calcium and phosphorus levels. You know when you haven’t gotten enough Vit D, ‘cos you tend to feel a bit down and out, might get sick pretty easily, and feel really tired all the time. Get out in that dang sun.
It’s easier to get your friends along.
It could be as simple as stopping off on a weekend walk down the park, or a planned little workout. You’re both outside and ~feeling social~ and there’s not a single mirror in sight; it’s perfect. Plus you and your mate can have a bit of a laugh, which immediately takes away any exercise-related anxieties. Have a red-hot go, and even if you look like a bit of an idiot, at least you’re not alone.
Easy-peasy & super convenient.
Because you’re not lifting any weights beyond your own weight, you’ll probably find it to be a low-impact, relatively easy workout. That’s not saying you won’t work up a sweat or feel the burn of the workout – you absolutely will. It’s also the perfect little stop-off for people who find themselves running out of time to go to a class or a gym sesh, because it’s just there and you don’t have to worry about any of the regular gym stuff. Oh and if you’ve got kiddies, or you’re on that v. important aunty/uncle duty for an afternoon, you can definitely just let the kids have a run around in the park while you have a cheeky workout.
You’ll save money for important things, like brunch.
Do I even need to explain this further? If you’re a little strapped for cash but you really wanna keep yourself feeling and looking alert, then these outdoor gym parks are like a gift from the workout heavens. So that dosh you’re saving on class passes and gym fees you can put straight into a savings account your brunch funds.
You got a park, you got a gym.
Tbh, you don’t even need a proper outdoor gym to cop a workout down at the park. If you find yourself facing some monkey bars, you can try your hand at some pull-ups on those bad boys. Fang some pushups on a playground ladder. Do some tricep dips on a nearby park bench. MacGyver the heck outta that place, just don’t annoy some kids trying to have a play in the process. Don’t be that guy.
Don’t forget to cool it.
Warming your bod up and down are always a must, for every workout sesh. No matter whether you’re playing a game of footy, or working out at the local park gym, making sure you’re stretching everything out, and warming up and down your muscles is important to stop your body from hurting. Stretching hamstrings and calves using low bars and park equipment, and warming down with a gentle walk home or back to the car helps your body chill out after a good park circuit.
There ya go, no need to be intimidated by those outdoor gyms. Best bet is to grab a mate and have a red hot go. If you’re still not convinced, check out the vid below of us P.TV staff and our fave workout tips.
