London's greenest gyms open for business

12.34.00pm GMT Mon 10th Mar 2008

• TWO green spaces in Richmond upon Thames are offering residents the ultimate in al fresco exercise - the first outdoor gyms to be installed in a London park.

Boasting no joining or membership fees and a zero carbon footprint once installed, the open air fitness suites in Hampton Common and Heathfield Recreation Ground, Whitton, offer the latest in cheap and sustainable fitness training. In a six-month trial between Richmond Council and outdoor exercise company, Fresh-Air Fitness, six fitness stations have been installed in both parks. They include equipment to work the upper body, arms, legs and waist, and work-outs for different ability levels can be downloaded from the internet. The gym is suitable for people aged over 12 and the Council will be asking park users what they think of them.

Cllr Stephen Knight, Deputy Leader of Richmond Council, said: "The machines are excellent and a great way of encouraging people to exercise and socialise in our parks. Our borough has already been crowned the most active in the country by Sport England with just over a third of adults taking regular exercise. However, many are still not exercising enough and we need to find different ways to encourage them to become fit and healthy. These new facilities are an excellent alternative for those who are put off by the thought of going to the gym or can't afford the membership. We await the outcome of the trail with great anticipation."