Locals invited to try Forres Community Outdoor Gym

The gym, which originally opened in December 2023, is behind Forres Academy and Forres Swimming Pool and includes multi-station and multi-user exercise pieces for a full body workout.

The public are invited to drop by the gym on Monday 22 April between 7pm and 8pm where guidance will be given on how to use the outdoor gym equipment.

Ann Rossiter, Chair of Forres Community Sports Hub, who led the project, said: “We’re so pleased by the positive response we received from the Forres community at the launch of the gym. It’s wonderful to offer a high-quality community asset that’s free for anyone to use, especially at a time when everyone is feeling the pinch due to the cost of living crisis.

“It’s been encouraging to see people of varying ages use the gym equipment. Hopefully with the longer days and warmer weather we’ll see more people access the gym and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits.

“The cardiovascular benefits of exercise for older people is important for good health and regularly lifting light weights will help to maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

“For younger users at the Academy the gym is a useful resource, and strength and conditioning needs to be part of any sports training programme.”

Moray Council Leader, Kathleen Robertson added: “I’m delighted to see all the positive response to the gym, it truly is a wonderful addition to the community. Thank you to the Forres Community Council and Forres Community Sports Hub for the amazing work they’ve done to make this all possible.

"It’s especially pleasing that the gym can be used by individuals with disabilities. An arm bike, which is accessible from a seating or standing position, offers cardiovascular training to those with less lower-body mobility.

“I’d encourage anyone who has been thinking about using the gym to pop along to the session on Monday, it’s a great way to learn more about the equipment and get started using it.”

A GoFundMe has been set up by Forres Community Sports Hub to fundraise for the gym’s running costs.