Article published on 19 July 2016
Proludic partnered with Knowsley Council to produce 15 sites under the green gyms initiative. These opened this year and have been hugely successful.
The funding for these facilities for Knowsley came through Public Health. This is because they are keen to invest in free, accessible facilities to help tackle some troubling statistics, these were:
- In 2013 23% of deaths in the borough were down to cardiovascular disease
- The average ‘healthy’ life expectancy was 57 years
The results since installation have been great! We are now pleased to share some statistics with a positive outcome:
- 146,000 residents in Knowsley now have access to outdoor gym equipment within 10 minutes of their house
- 14 of the 15 sites were in deprived areas. Places where everyone can truly benefit
- The local NHS groups that run exercise classes on the sites have a 70% retention rate on all participants that have signed up to them
Since the official opening, the Council has worked hard to promote the green gyms initiative and has had a fantastic response. Promoting free and accessible equipment in the borough and running classes on them really have made the community warm to them and use these fantastic facilities.
Knowsley has even produced their own video showing the uses of the green gyms. This is a perfect example of what can be achieved.
Since this success, we have decided to embark on our own challenge to get 1 million people more active by 2020. If we give 146,000 residents in Knowsley a great chance at being more active then we can get to this 1 million mark.
Do you want to get involved with this initiative to help us reach our target? Then please contact [email protected] quoting ‘1 million active’.
More advice from experts
Bonnymead Play Park: A Destination Site for Everyone
Article published on 17 August 2026
Amesbury Town Council had an ambitious vision to transform Bonnymead Play Park into a landmark recreation destination. With a £500,000 investment and an open design brief, the Council wanted more than a conventional playground. The aim was to create a high-quality public space. It would attract visitors and encourage longer stays. It would also provide...
Lower Leas Coastal Play Park – A Unique Natural Design for a Unique Location
Article published on 13 August 2026
A new £750,000 coastal play park has opened in Lower Leas Coastal Park in Folkestone. This has elevated the existing site into the self-proclaimed “largest free adventure playground in the South-East”. Folkestone & Hythe District Council aimed to improve access across this site. It helped users of all abilities enjoy all 15 zones equally. Following...
