I recently attended a CPD organised by the Landscape Institute on outdoor activity areas, it reminded me of my bus journey to and from the office. At the same point each day, I look out of the window and see deserted fitness machines on the edge of a new housing development. I often wondered why nobody used them, was it because I never pass through in the daytime? Was it because of their location next to a busy road into Birmingham? Or was it simply that people don’t like using them?

How you ‘feel’ seemed to be a key factor in the usage of these areas, we answered a poll along the lines of: ‘Would you prefer your fitness areas to be completely covered, partially covered (by a low hedge for example) or completely open?’ – not surprisingly, the majority answered partially covered. People want to feel overlooked enough to feel safe, not enough to feel trapped and not too little to feel exposed.

For me, the main obstacle between myself and the fitness equipment is embarrassment, the thought of doing a workout in public for everyone to see doesn’t really fill me with confidence and I imagine that many people feel the same way. The speakers at the event showed a number of successful precedents with a common theme throughout, they were all located near a play area, MUGA or skatepark.

Being in close proximity to other areas of activity seemed to reduce peoples self consciousness, offering a space to work out and still see your children on the swing means that all the family can exercise in one location. There’s also something to be said for the carefree nature of children and their ability to have fun with complete confidence that we sadly lose as we get older.

The only time I have used a piece of outdoor fitness equipment was at the park with my 2 year old niece (admittedly this was because she thought it very funny to watch and not because I was planning on doing a workout). Nevertheless, I didn’t feel as embarrassed this time. Perhaps being around a more playful atmosphere encouraged me to try something new?

We recently submitted plans for the Major Urban Park in Ebbsfleet, one of the largest new public parks in the country. Our approach there was to join the fitness equipment together to promote socialising and engender an additional social element to the park.

Outdoor fitness equipment is such a valuable addition to developments, offering a free alternative to an otherwise exclusive ‘members only’ activity. By prioritising location and comfort we can start to see outdoor activity areas achieving their purpose…activity with friends!