Find Your Outdoor Gym UK | Free Park Workouts

Category: General

  • When is the 2025 Great North Run?

    When is the 2025 Great North Run?


    Countdown to the Great North Run

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    AJ Bell Great North Run 2025

    The Great North Run. Just the name makes your heart beat faster, doesn’t it? It’s more than just a half marathon; it’s a North East institution, a day of incredible community spirit, and a challenge that pushes you to your limits. And if you’re thinking about taking on this epic race, or just want to improve your fitness, Park Gyms are here to help you every step of the way!

    Whether you’re a seasoned runner aiming for a PB or a newbie lacing up your trainers for the first time, incorporating strength training into your routine is key. And guess what? You don’t need a fancy gym membership to do it. Your local park gym offers a fantastic range of equipment to build the power, endurance, and stability you need to conquer those 13.1 miles. Think pull-ups for upper body strength, leg presses for powerful strides, and core work to keep you going strong. And don’t forget your running training, obvs.

    We’re not saying you’ll breeze through it – the Great North Run is a challenge – but with the right training, and a bit of Park Gym power, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve. So, get out there, start training, and we’ll see you at the finish line!

    Some runners crossing the Tyne Bridge

    Great North Run: Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Race Details

    A: The Great North Run, a legendary half marathon, is gearing up to paint the North East with a sea of runners on Sunday, September 7th, 2025. While the main ballot might be closed, don’t despair! Many charities still have places available, so you can run for a cause and achieve something amazing.

    Q: How Long Is This Thing, Anyway?

    A: It’s a proper half marathon, that means 13.1 miles (or about 21 kilometres) of pure grit and glory. Get ready to push yourself!

    Q: When’s the Big Day?

    A: Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 7th, 2025. The starting gun fires (metaphorically speaking) on that day.

    Q: Where Does All This Running Happen?

    A: The race kicks off in the bustling heart of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, sweeps across the iconic Tyne Bridge into Gateshead, and then heads down to the coast, finishing in South Shields. The atmosphere is electric!

    Q: What Time Do I Need To Be There?

    A: The first race starts at 10:20, with the elite wheelchair athletes going wheel to wheel. The elite women cross the start line at 10:25, followed by the visually impaired at 10:27. The main race kicks off at 10:50 AM – with the elite men, closely followed by the masses. The starting area is near the Central Motorway, close to the Town Moor. Public transport (especially the Metro to Haymarket) is a popular option, but be prepared for crowds…

    Q: Where Do I Collapse (Victorious) At The End?

    A: The final stretch, known as the Coast Road, leads you to a triumphant finish in South Shields, near Gypsies Green. This is where you’ll find your cheering squad and celebrate your incredible achievement!

  • Best Affordable Resistance Bands for Different Workouts

    Which bands should you use, how to use them, and why they’re perfect for outdoor training.

    Resistance bands are among the most versatile and affordable pieces of fitness equipment available. But not all bands are created equal — and understanding the different types can make or break your workout. Whether you’re a beginner training at your local park gym or you’re working out in your home gym, choosing the right type of resistance band is essential.

    This guide will walk you through:

    • The different types of resistance bands
    • The benefits of using bands (especially in park gym environments)
    • Which bands are best for different workouts
    • Recommended budget-friendly options with trusted links – we’ve got you covered

    Why Resistance Bands Are Perfect for Park Gym Training

    Unlike weights, resistance bands are:

    • Portable and lightweight — easy to bring to any park
    • Gentler on joints, making them ideal for injury prevention or recovery
    • Effective for progressive overload, especially for beginners or calisthenics enthusiasts
    • Versatile — one band can replace an entire rack of dumbbells for many movements

    They’re especially useful outdoors, where you might not have access to machines or consistent equipment. Whether anchored to a bar, looped over a tree, or used free-standing, resistance bands make the most of the park gym environment.

    The 4 Main Types of Resistance Bands (and our recommended products)

    1. Tube Bands with Handles

    Great for: Compound movements, rows, presses, and lateral raises
    Best for: Beginners to intermediate users

    These bands come with attached handles and often include a door anchor. They’re especially useful for mimicking dumbbell-style movements and isolating specific muscle groups in a controlled way. Because of the handles, they’re beginner-friendly and ideal for upper-body routines.

    👉 Recommended product:
    Resistance Bands with Handles – 5 Tube Set
    Great for compound and lateral exercises at home or outdoors

    Set of tube resistance bands with handles and door anchor
    Check price at Amazon

    2. Long Loop Bands

    Great for: Pull-up assistance, mobility work, and full-body resistance
    Best for: All levels, especially bodyweight training

    These are continuous latex loops, typically around 40 inches, and are a staple in calisthenics and functional fitness. They’re ideal for assisting with pull-ups, enhancing stretches, or adding resistance to squats, presses, or core movements.

    👉 Recommended product:
    Fokky Long Loop Resistance Bands Set
    Perfect for outdoor use, especially in park gyms with pull-up bars

    Set of long loop resistance bands
    Check price at Amazon

    3. Mini Loop Bands

    Great for: Lower body activation, glutes, and dynamic warmups
    Best for: Beginners to advanced athletes

    Mini bands are small loops that target the lower body — particularly the glutes, hamstrings, and hips. They’re a go-to for physiotherapists and PTs for activation work, injury prevention, and controlled lower-body resistance.

    👉 Recommended product:
    Gritin Mini Resistance Bands (Set of 5)
    Durable, latex-based bands with multiple resistance levels

    Set of mini loop resistance bands for glute and leg workouts
    Check price at Amazon

    4. Fabric Resistance Bands

    Great for: Lower body work without slipping or pinching
    Best for: Anyone who finds latex bands uncomfortable

    These offer similar benefits to mini bands but use fabric instead of latex. They’re wider, don’t roll or pinch, and tend to last longer under heavy tension — ideal for glute bridges, monster walks, and hip thrusts.

    👉 Recommended product:
    CFX Fabric Resistance Band Set
    Comfortable, non-slip, and ideal for leg-day circuits at the park

    Set of fabric resistance bands for lower body exercises
    Check price at Amazon

    Our Verdict

    If you’re working out in a park gym or looking to build strength on the go, resistance bands are a no-brainer. They’re compact, cost-effective, and suitable for nearly every fitness level. Whether you’re trying to master your first pull-up, fire up your glutes, or build strength without weights — the right band will help you get there.

    Our recommendation for readers who are unsure which resistance band to start with would be to grab the tube bands with handles. Not only are they super versatile, but they can also provide a full body workout.

    Explore one or two types from this list, and you’ll unlock a huge range of movement — wherever you train.

    To support our free Park Gyms directory, this article contains links which may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. All products shown have been researched.

  • Embrace the Great Outdoors: A Beginner-Friendly Full-Body Park Gym Workout

    Are you ready to take your fitness journey outside? With the beautiful parks across the UK, there’s no better place to start than at your local outdoor gym! This full-body workout uses only your body weight, making it perfect for beginners looking to build strength and confidence.

    Begin with a quick warm-up—think dynamic stretches like arm circles and leg swings to get your muscles ready.

    • Bodyweight Squats (3 sets of 10-15 reps): Targets your quads, hamstrings, and glutes. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, back straight, and lower until your thighs are parallel to the ground.
    • Push-Ups (3 sets of 8-12 reps): Engages your chest, shoulders, and triceps. If regular push-ups are too challenging, start with knee push-ups.
    • Lunges (3 sets of 10 reps per leg): Works your legs and glutes while improving balance. Take a step forward and lower your body until both knees are bent at 90 degrees.
    • Plank (3 sets for 20-30 seconds): A fantastic core strengthener that targets your abs, back, and shoulders. Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels.
    • Tricep Dips (3 sets of 8-12 reps): Use a park bench for this one! It targets your triceps and shoulders. Keep your back close to the bench and lower your body until your elbows form a 90-degree angle.

    Finish your session with a cooldown, including static stretches focusing on your arms, legs, and back. Remember, consistency is key. Whether you’re in Hyde Park or a local community park, outdoor workout facilities offer a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to connect with nature.

  • Introducing the creator of Park Gyms

    Hello everyone!

    As a busy working father, I understand the challenges of balancing family, work, and personal wellness. My passion lies in promoting free fitness opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds while also lending a helping hand to others in their journey toward a healthier lifestyle.

    The idea of Park Gyms was something I thought up when the UK was emerging from the Covid pandemic. The public’s interest in fitness was at an all time high, and I found it frustrating that I didn’t have time to go to a traditional gym – not to mention the cost of doing so.

    Furthermore, a quick 15 minute workout at a park gym can be conveniently combined with a family day out – making it an accessible way of keeping fit.

    I do hope you find this site both informative and useful during your own fitness journey. And most of all, thank you for visiting Park Gyms.

  • Why Outdoor Gyms Are the UK’s Most Underrated Fitness Resource

    If you’re tired of crowded indoor gyms or expensive memberships, you’re not alone. More and more people across the UK are discovering the benefits of outdoor gyms — free, public fitness spaces located in parks and open areas across the country.

    Outdoor gyms offer an easy, accessible way to get fit without the pressure of a traditional gym environment. Most are equipped with bodyweight stations like pull-up bars, parallel bars, step-up platforms, and even cardio equipment like air walkers or bikes. They’re perfect for everything from a quick 15-minute workout to a full-body strength session.

    💡 Why You Should Give Park Gyms a Try:

    • Free to use — no sign-ups, no monthly fees
    • Open 24/7 — workout whenever it suits you
    • Fresh air & vitamin D — great for both your body and mind
    • Great for all levels — from beginners to seasoned calisthenics enthusiasts

    At Park Gyms, we make it easy to find your nearest gym, explore what equipment is available, and even contribute by submitting new locations. Whether you’re looking to try something new or get back into a fitness routine, an outdoor gym might be your perfect starting point.

    👉 Launch the Gym Finder now and discover your nearest outdoor workout spot.