Summary
An outdoor exercise program was facilitated in 2016 by Kiama Municipal Council in partnership with the Health Promotion Service from the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District. The project included 9 one-hour sessions facilitated by a trained exercise professional to demonstrate safe and beneficial ways to use the Werri Beach Outdoor exercise equipment, followed by a healthy breakfast and opportunity for social connection amongst the group. The first program attracted older adults and thus the program was adapted in 2018 & 2019 to specifically target people over the age of 55 years of age in the community. Additionally, the program was shortened to 8 weeks in response to feedback from participants.
In 2017, we conducted a health survey with residents living in the Local Government Area (LGA), 25% of respondents were not meeting the National Physical Activity Recommendations. Additionally, respondents suggested more access to outdoor facilities and low cost or free programs promoting physical activity would help them improve their health and well-being.
This project provided an opportunity for residents in the Kiama LGA to learn not only how to use the outdoor exercise equipment but, also teach them ways to incorporate active living into their lives. The program built social connections between residents and increased people’s confidence to participate in physical activity on their own.
Aim
The aim of the project was to explore people’s perceptions of the benefits of using
outdoor gym equipment via delivering an 8-week physical activity program, and to determine whether people will participate in ongoing sessions at the outdoor exercise equipment.
Objectives
The objectives of the project were to;
(i) Encourage the use of outdoor parks and the safe use of the outdoor exercise equipment by residents in the LGA
(ii) Increase 85% of program participant’s confidence in using the outdoor exercise equipment.
(iii) Build a level of social connectedness between participants taking part in the project.
Key facts
Main target group: Older people in general
Other target group(s): Over 55's
Sector(s): Health, Information and communication
Desired outcome for older people:
Be mobile
- Accessibility
- Healthy behaviours (e.g. physical activity)
- Participation