Outdoor Gym Breaks Ground in Lamoureux Park
December 8, 2015Cornwall Ontario – Community members gatheredto break ground on a new outdoor workout gym that is being installed in Lamoureux Park along the banks of the St. Lawrence River.
The project is spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Cornwall and the Sunrise Rotary Club. Once complete, the outdoor workout park will feature 10 pieces of gym equipment.
“An active and healthy lifestyle is important,” says Patrick Clarke, one of the organizers of the project and a well-known proponent of active sports in the region. “The outdoor gym allows people to burn a few more calories while taking a nice stroll along the river.”
The workout equipment will combine typical gym exercises with durable weather-resistant machines. The fitness equipment ranges from cardiovascular endurance to upper and lower strength training. Other pieces could be added in the future.
It is estimated that there are over 100 outdoor fitness gyms located in parks across Canada.
The outdoor gym will be located directly adjacent to the splash pad and Cornwall Community Museum, and is easily accessible from the Waterfront Trail and other recreational paths.
The City of Cornwall donated the land to the project.
Preparation work has begun at the site and the equipment is expected to be installed in the spring. Barring any unforeseen issues, the project is expected to be completed by May.
The project has a budget of approximately $80,000 of hard costs and in-kind services. Roughly $45,000 has been raised for the project so far, and that includes financial commitments of $15,000 from both Rotary clubs.
The outdoor gym will have a stone path at its centre featuring the names of individuals, businesses and organizations who have supported the project. People can support the project by purchasing an engraved brick. Bricks range in size and cost from $250 to $2,500.