Outdoor exercise – fresh air, freedom and physical strength

With nature as your gym, you not only get exercise but also natural light, fresh air and a mental boost. Whether you prefer running, cycling, strength training, yoga or walking, there are many benefits to taking your workout outdoors. It’s not hard to see why outdoor exercise has become increasingly popular.

Free training all year round

Exercising in the great outdoors isn’t just about the freedom to tailor your workout to how you feel on the day or whatever takes your fancy. You can exercise whenever suits you, and you don’t need a gym membership to get fit. As well as outdoor gyms and exercise trails, park benches, steps or logs can serve as equipment for an effective full-body workout. For those who enjoy cycling, there are several different options in the form of cycle paths, MTB trails and Pumptracks.

With the right clothing and the right attitude, it’s perfectly possible to exercise even in winter. Snow and cold weather can even provide extra resistance and variety. If there’s enough snow, several cross-country skiing trails are prepared, and you can go ice skating in a number of places.

Benefits of outdoor exercise

• Improved mood – Daylight and natural surroundings reduce stress and boost well-being.
• Stronger immune system – Regular outdoor exercise can contribute to better health.
• Variety and challenge – Uneven terrain, wind and varying temperatures make the workout more dynamic.
• Social and accessible – Many people exercise together in parks or at outdoor gyms, which fosters a sense of community.

• Child-friendly – many outdoor gyms are located near swimming spots, playgrounds or activity parks.

• Free and accessible 24 hours a day, all year round.

Tips for getting started

1. Dress for the weather – Layering is key, especially during the colder months.
2. Warm up properly – Your body may need a little extra time to get going when you’re outdoors.
3. Make use of what’s around you – Stairs, benches, playgrounds – anything can become exercise equipment.
4. Set goals – A clear plan makes it easier to stay motivated.

Gym under the sky

Kalmar Kommun offers a wide range of outdoor gyms for anyone wishing to exercise outdoors, designed to suit both beginners and experienced exercisers, and strategically located in both urban settings and natural surroundings in towns and villages. The equipment is often made of wood or steel and offers opportunities for strength training, balance exercises and cardio. The surfaces vary from gravel and bark to rubberised asphalt. Many of the gyms are located next to walking trails, bathing spots or playgrounds – making them perfect places for the whole family. Several of the facilities are lit, making it possible to exercise even during the darker months.

Below is a small selection.

• Långviken outdoor gym – One of the most popular. It also features an obstacle course, a beach volleyball court and a swimming area with a diving platform, a sauna, barbecues and more. Perfect for a full day of activities.
• Fredriksskans – A compact gym with artificial turf, centrally located – perfect for a lunchtime workout.
• Skälby – A well-equipped gym near 4H-gården and the exercise trail.
• Fjölebro – A large wooden playground at Lindsdals IP, with bark mulch as the surface.
• Bergaparken outdoor gym – a wooden CrossFit station with a rubberised asphalt surface. Well-lit and located near the activity park and barbecue area.

Local collaboration and engagement

Kalmar Kommun is responsible for the upkeep of several facilities, whilst others are run by local associations and village committees.

You do know that Fritidsbanken has free equipment available to borrow, don’t you?