Outdoor fitness in Wales

A new outdoor gym has arrived at National Star in Wales, including a cross trainer, pull up bar, bicycle and an air skier.

Students are enhancing their gross motor skills while trialling the new outdoor gym equipment in Wales. One student, Ben, has taken a cautious approach to the equipment. At first, he was intrigued by the new equipment and wanted to spend more time in the garden.

Over time, he explored each piece of equipment and found his favourite, the bicycle! Ben focussed on his leg movements, specifically how to balance while lifting a leg over the seat, then incorporated his hands onto the hand cycles and soon both foot pedal and hand cycles were moving! Ben’s expression changed from nervous to pure excitement as he realised his achievement.

Rebecca Roberts, Curriculum Manager in Wales said: ‘We’re so grateful to enhance our outdoor learning space. This equipment not only promotes better health but also meets our learners’ sensory needs, helping them prepare for success across the curriculum.’

The new equipment brings various benefits for our learners:

• Improve overall health
• Strengthen heart and lung function
• Engage core muscles for stability
• Joint mobility
• Balance and coordination
• Accessibility and adaptability