RESIDENTS are being urged to get fit outside after a series of outdoor gyms was launched for the first time in parks across Slough borough.

The 'green gyms' have been installed in numerous outdoor areas by Slough Borough Council including Kennedy Park, in Long Furlong Drive, Upton Court Park in Upton Court Road, Kedermister Park in London Road and at recreation grounds in Cippenham, Chalvey and the playing fields off Godolphin Road.

There are also exercise trails in areas including Harvey Park, off Tamar Way, Langley and in land close to Buttermere Avenue.

The flagship, larger gym however is in Salt Hill Park, adjacent to the tennis centre.

The council observed neighbouring authorities' own success stories with the outdoor gyms before deciding it was for them.

The gym equipment itself is made of 85 per cent recycled and recyclable materials.

Alison Hibbert, leisure strategy manager for the council, said: "They are becoming more popular across the country.

"We have visited neighbouring facilities in neighbouring authorities such as Buckinghamshire, there is one in Burnham which is very popular with the residents.

"We had been looking to install them last year but we had a few problems with suppliers so it has been delayed by 10 months but it is worth waiting for because I have never had to much positive feedback. People absolutely love the equipment."

The equipment has been installed by The Great Outdoor Gym Company which also plants a tree for every piece of equipment purchased by an authority or other body.

The council says it can provide bespoke inductions for people looking to use the equipment although regular sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 10.30 to 11.30am at Salt Hill Park. But there are also visual instructions on the equipment itself and an induction is not a prerequisite.

Parents are required to supervise children using the gym and the equipment is suitable for ages 14 and over.

For more information contact Kam Bhatti, active communities manager, on kam.bhatti@slough.gov.uk