Fitness

A Park for Fitness, Elders and Therapy

We are looking to add equipment that will support fitness for all ages, including elders and those doing physical therapy.

Elder Parks, common in Europe, are specifically designed to help older people work on their strength, practice balance, and gain confidence in moving. Proximity to the Medical Center also makes this an ideal place for physical therapy patients and those recovering from surgery to move in ways which will help them heal. Being able to be outdoors, hear the breeze ruffle the leaves, and watch birds in the trees while exercising is bound to improve health outcomes. Much of this equipment is fun (and sometimes challenging!) for users of all ages and abilities.

Below are some ideas for possible equipment to meet these objectives. Email us with if you have additional suggestions. Besides fitness stations, we’re planning to have a short set-distance walking loop to help people meet their walking goals.

Leg Exerciser

Get the benefits of walking without the danger of slipping or falling.

Shoulder Exerciser

Turning these circular wheels helps strengthen the shoulders and improve range of motion.

Arm Exerciser

Sliding the balls up and down the bars strengthens the arms and wrists.

Ramps and Fixed Steps

Whether made of metal or stone for a more natural look, a series of ramps and steps builds fitness gradually and increases confidence in moving.

Swing Steps

Walking back and forth along the swinging bridge steps helps develop a good stance for uneven or unstable surfaces, like on the ferry. Walking between steps requires lifting the knees up high, strengthening the hip flexors.

Wavy Balance Beam

Walking backwards and forwards along the beam improves walking safely on awkward surfaces, such as natural and unpaved paths.

Balance Spring

Balancing on the platform improves body control and balance, with a particular focus on the deep muscles. This is also a fun way of improving one's posture.

Wave Bar

Move the ring from one end of the bar to the other without touching the bar. Strengthens shoulder and arm muscles needed in getting dressed, combing hair, washing oneself and hanging up clothes.

Hip Spring

Bending side to side and front to back improves flexibility and strength in the hips and low back.

Gymnastic Rings

Use your body weight for pull ups to improve strength and range of motion in the shoulders.

Medicine Ball Wall

Throwing and catching a weighted medicine ball in various ways targets different muscle groups. The back side of the wall might be a climbing wall or net.