Adult Playground

Who says that playgrounds are only for kids? In an effort to improve activity levels in older adults, a “playground” geared to adults 60 and older is set to open in spring 2010 in London’s Hyde Park. The “Hyde Park Senior Playground” will have six pieces of outdoor exercise equipment, including a stationary bicycle, a cross-trainer and a sit-up bench. A similar park, equipped with pull-up, push-up and pedaling stations, was built in Manchester’s Dam Head Park 2 years ago. That park cost about $22,600 (£15,000) and was built by a local residents’ association. “When we tested [the park], all the people we took in were over 70, and I have never heard so much laughing,” said Joan Fitzgerald, the association’s chairwoman. “I believe you are never too old to play, and this also helps keep you fit.”