Newoutdoor fitness area gets a workout

It’s not quite California’s Muscle Beach, but a new attraction at Tahunanui is aiming to give Nelsonians a free way to keep fit outdoors.

The Tahunanui Outdoor Fitness Area, opened shortly before Christmas, has nine fitness machines provided by Devine Fitness Equipment, with another three on the way, installed using $48,000 raised by the Nelson Lioness Club.

Joe Boden of Christchurch said his two daughters had been on it almost every day since they arrived in Nelson on Boxing Day.

Daughter Amy, 9, was a gymnast, so the fitness area was a good way for her to stay in condition before she went to a competition in Australia this month.

It was also good for him to keep in shape after doing nothing all year, Mr Boden said.

Amy said she enjoyed the crosstrainer the most.

‘‘It’s better because you get a bit more of a workout,’’ she said.

Sister Elaine, 11, agreed. ‘‘It’s really fun,’’ she said.

Nelson Lioness Club member Lois Aitkenhead said fundraising took about a year, with funds coming from garage sales, catering, truffle and jam sales, with $33,000 coming from a grant from the Nelson City Council’s Physical Activity Committee.

The group had wanted to give something a little bit different back to the city.

‘‘We saw a need for something like that. A lot of people can’t afford to go to a gym, but this is free, it’s safe, it’s good for people. We hope a wide range of people will enjoy it.’’

She had used it already, taking her grandchildren along for a workout.

‘‘It’s actually quite good, you don’t feel quite so silly when you go on, when you have some kids with you.’’