WINDHOEK – The Tugela Family Park in Wanaheda is popular among residents who keep fit by using the facility’s free outdoor gym.
“I come here to relax,” Tobias Timotheus told New Era on Monday. Timotheus, an aspiring boxer, says he does not use the outdoor gym to exercise as he normally gyms at an indoor gym in town.
However, he was quick to point out that the outdoor gym is popular among residents. “This gym is good for people in the surrounding areas because they can exercise and that will make their bodies stronger. The problem is some of the equipment is already broken,” said Timotheus.
“I love this (outdoor) gym because it is very good for us. I live close to Havana and all we do that side is play soccer, so I sometimes come here to exercise,” said Vilho Kapolo, a learner at a Windhoek school.
The outdoor gym is the only such facility in Namibia, Joshua Amukugo, the Windhoek Municipality spokesperson said. “It was introduced to enhance the well-being and health of Windhoek residents,” said Amukugo.
The gym has rowing machines, stationary cycles and various equipment for doing push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups and other exercises.
According to Amukugo, the equipment is often under strain. “Two to three individuals use the machines at a time and this is not allowed,” said Amukugo.
“There is now a security guard at the facility that is monitoring the use of the equipment,” said Amukugo.
He added that there were reports of school-goers missing lessons to spend time in the outdoor gym.