More urged to use free outdoor gym

For more than two years the outdoor exercise and rehabilitation centre at Pohlen Hospital has helped Matamata residents to stay active.

But Sports Waikato Active and Well co-ordinator Tui Priest said she would like to see the resources used more frequently.

“It’s a fantastic facility and it’s free,” she said.

“It caters for all sorts of people, of all ages, whether they are losing weight, doing rehab work or just want to keep fit.”

The facility has seven pieces of exercise equipment, a ramp/stair, obstacle course and health walk designed to build cardio-vascular fitness, strength and balance.

On Wednesday mornings, Mrs Priest is on-site to teach new- comers how to use equipment and to help regulars stay on track.

“When people first come down they are usually a bit shy but once they get going they are away,” she said.

Margaret Tews had a stroke five months ago and doctors suggested she make use of the outdoor centre to help with her recovery.

“The stroke left me with a weak leg but it seems to be strengthening,” she said.

“I come down here two or three times a week.

‘‘On a nice day it’s absolutely beautiful out in the fresh air.”

Equipment at the centre was specifically designed to help people build fitness, strength, balance and flexibility.

“It’s a wonderful tool for rehabilitation,” Mrs Priest said.

“It helps older people to keep their mobility up and gives them more confidence.”

There are a number of regulars at the centre and Mrs Priest said they had started to meet for a coffee group once a month.

If you are interested in using this facility, please contact Mrs Priest on 027 270 8867.

Or head down to the centre on a Wednesday between 10am and 12.30pm.