Green gym launches in Gloucester

Forget pumping iron and the exercise bike, as people wanting to get fit in Gloucester can now do some gardening or clear some trees to keep trim.

Gloucester City Council has joined forces with the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers to launch a 'green gym'.

Fitness fans can help build walls, clear woodland and repair footpaths every month in Barnwood, Tuffley, Matson/Saint- bridge and White City.

Caroline Henley who works in the council's sports development team said: "Every week we have a session at one of the sites which will last about three hours on a Thursday morning, based in green areas of the city.

"About 30 minutes of gardening can burn about 170 calories.

"Gardening is a great way to exercise and you don't really notice you're doing it, but it is a big change from the usual aerobics classes or gym work."

"People can come for an hour or three depending on what they want and are able to do, but it can be very beneficial for people while also helping the local community."

The free event is open to everyone over the age of 16.

People can devote up to three hours of their time and take part in a range of activities that can grow in difficulty as they get fitter.

Councillor Martyn White, cabinet member for heritage and leisure, said: "This is another innovative idea aimed at improving health and developing our local communities.

"We will have experienced leaders on site and this will be a great fun way for people to combine doing something for themselves and their communities.

"Best of all – it's free."

The scheme will be launched by the Mayor, Councillor Chris Witts, on Thursday when he plants a tree at Clock Tower Park in Abbeymead at 10.30am.

The full programme of sites, dates and times is available on the city council website at www.gloucester.gov.uk/sportsdevelopment