Back to the Playground
16 Oct 12 |
The term “adult playground” may deter some adults from using one however it is this concept that could play a part in addressing Scotland’s ever expanding obesity epidemic.
It is estimated that the majority of adults in Scotland do not achieve the recommended 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity. This sedentary lifestyle has been estimated to contribute to approximately 2,500 premature deaths per year in Scotland as well as 25% of colon-cancer deaths1.
Adult playgrounds, or outdoor gyms, have been implemented in many countries over the world in an attempt to increase physical activity levels. Being able to exercise outdoors literally tears down the walls constructed by the modern gym culture, negating barriers such as cost and accessibility, returning physical activity to a more natural experience. These outdoor gyms could make exercise free and local for those in most need of them.
In the UK, Camden is at the forefront of this new craze, having 9 adult playgrounds situated throughout the burgh. Research suggests that 26% of those attending these gyms would not have exercised otherwise2 demonstrating the effects such innovative projects can have on an otherwise sedentary population.
The first outdoor gym was introduced to Scotland earlier this year, in Edinburgh, and depending on its success they could be introduced across the country3. It could be that regressing back into the playground is what Scotland needs to help quell its rising obesity levels.
- Physical activity and health- facts and figures. Available at http://www.sustrans.org.uk/what-we-do/active-travel/active-travel-information-resources/physical-activity-and-health-facts-and-figures Accessed on 22/8/12
- The Rise of the Adult Playground. Available at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-17818223 Accessed on 22/8/12
- Edinburgh’s first outdoor gym opens. Available at http://stv.tv/news/east-central/29890-edinburghs-first-outdoor-gym-opens/ Accessed 23/8/12
This article was originally published in Volume 3, Issue 4 of the SCPN Newsletter.
Read the full issue here:
The SCPN Newsletter: Volume 3, Issue 4
In our Winter 2012 issue, we cover the risks and benefits of ovarian cancer screening, awareness of teenage cancer in Britain, cancer and the NHS in 2040, and more.