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Outdoor Fitness Equipment Buying Guide (2024)
Outdoor fitness equipment has become increasingly popular among individuals looking to lead an active lifestyle. With the right equipment, individuals can engage in a variety of exercises that help improve their physical and mental health. However, before purchasing outdoor fitness equipment, there are several factors that need to be considered to ensure the equipment is safe, durable, and suitable for the intended users. In this article, we will explore the different types of outdoor fitness equipment available, the factors to consider when purchasing it, and how to choose the right equipment for your needs.
Benefits of Outdoor Fitness Equipment
Outdoor fitness equipment can provide numerous benefits to individuals and communities. Most notably:
Improving Physical Health: It can help improve physical health by providing a variety of exercises that can help increase strength, improve cardiovascular endurance, and enhance flexibility.
To read about the benefits of outdoor workouts - HERE
Outdoor fitness equipment can be an excellent addition to parks, schools, playgrounds, correctional facilities, fitness trails, and outdoor gyms, providing opportunities for individuals of all ages and fitness levels to stay active and healthy.
Different Types of Outdoor Fitness Equipment
When considering purchasing outdoor fitness equipment, it's essential to understand the different types of equipment available and their features. Here are the types of equipment to consider:
Outdoor Fitness Equipment Packages
Packages provide a comprehensive workout for individuals who have limited space. These packages can include a combination of equipment, such as strength and cardio machines, that provide a full-body workout.
ADA Accessible Outdoor Fitness Equipment
If you want to make sure that your outdoor fitness equipment is accessible to everyone, consider purchasing equipment that is ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible. This equipment is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible machines and transfer stations.
Outdoor Cardio Equipment
This equipment is designed to help individuals improve their cardiovascular endurance. This equipment includes elliptical machines, stationary bikes, rowers, etc.
Outdoor Stretching Equipment
These stations are designed to help individuals improve their flexibility and range of motion. This equipment includes both leg and upper body stretching stations.
Outdoor Weightlifting Equipment
Equipment designed to help individuals build muscle mass and strength. This equipment includes weight machines like you'd find in a traditional gym.
By understanding the different types of outdoor fitness equipment available, you can choose the type of equipment that best suits your needs and the needs of your target audience.
Factors to Consider when Purchasing Outdoor Fitness Equipment
When purchasing outdoor fitness equipment, there are several factors to consider ensuring that the equipment is safe, durable, and suitable for the intended users. Here are some of the key factors to keep in mind:
Durability: Outdoor fitness equipment is exposed to various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and sun. Therefore, it's essential to choose equipment made from durable materials that can withstand these conditions.
Safety: Safety is crucial when it comes to outdoor fitness equipment. Ensure that the equipment has been designed and tested to meet safety standards, including ASTM and CPSC.
Maintenance: Outdoor fitness equipment requires regular maintenance to ensure it remains in good working condition. Choose equipment that is easy to maintain, and ensure that you have a maintenance plan in place.
Cost: Outdoor fitness equipment can vary significantly in price. When considering the budget, it is important to keep in mind that the lowest-priced equipment may not be the most cost-effective in the long run. Cheaper equipment may require more frequent maintenance and replacement, while higher-priced equipment may be more durable and require less maintenance.
Equipment for Different Ages
When choosing outdoor fitness equipment, it's important to consider the age range of the intended users. Different age groups have varying fitness needs and requirements.
Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Kids
Kids have unique fitness needs, and outdoor fitness equipment for them should be designed to be fun and engaging. Children enjoy equipment that challenges their coordination, strength, and agility while encouraging imaginative play. Some examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for kids include monkey bars, balance beams, and pieces to climb on. When selecting equipment for kids, make sure that it is age-appropriate, safe, and meets ASTM and CPSC safety standards.
Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Adults
Adults have a wide range of fitness levels and goals. Outdoor fitness equipment for adults should be designed to accommodate different fitness levels and provide a challenging workout. Some examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for adults include elliptical machines, stationary bikes, treadmills, and strength training equipment. When selecting equipment for adults, consider the target audience's fitness level, goals, and limitations.
Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Seniors
Seniors have unique fitness needs that should be taken into consideration when choosing outdoor fitness equipment. Equipment designed for seniors should be low-impact, easy to use, and help improve balance and flexibility. Examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for seniors include recumbent bikes, stretching stations, and resistance training equipment. When selecting equipment for seniors, consider any limitations, such as mobility or balance issues, and choose equipment that is easy to use and safe.
Equipment for Different Locations
The location of outdoor fitness equipment can influence the type of equipment that is suitable. Different locations may have different user demographics and requirements. Here are some things to consider when choosing outdoor fitness equipment for your application:
Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Parks
Equipment for parks should be designed to accommodate a wide range of users, from children to seniors. Parks are often frequented by families, and equipment should be suitable for multi-generational use. Examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for parks include strength machines, pull-up bars, balance beams, and stations that can be used for exercises such as step-ups and tricep dips.
Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Schools
This equipment should be designed to meet the needs of students and staff. Schools often require equipment that can be used by a large number of users simultaneously, such as outdoor fitness circuits. Examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for schools include elliptical machines, stationary bikes, treadmills, and bodyweight systems like our StayFIT collection (SEE HERE).
Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Playgrounds
This equipment should be designed to be fun and engaging for users while encouraging physical activity. Playgrounds are often frequented by families and children of different ages and abilities. Examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for playgrounds include cardio pieces, strength machines and stretching stations.
Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Correctional Facilities
This equipment for correctional facilities should be designed to be durable, safe, low maintenance, and suitable for a range of users. Correctional facilities require equipment that can withstand heavy use and weather exposure. Examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for correctional facilities include pull-up bars, dip bars, and our revolutionary weightlifting machines (SEE HERE).
Outdoor Fitness Equipment for Fitness Trails
Outdoor fitness equipment for fitness trails should be designed to provide a challenging workout for users while also being suitable for outdoor use. Fitness trails are often used by runners, walkers, and hikers. Examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for fitness trails include pull-up bars, sit-up stations and other strength and stretching equipment.
Equipment for Outdoor Gyms
Outdoor gyms are designed for adults and are often equipped with fitness circuits that provide a full-body workout. Equipment at outdoor gyms is designed to be durable and withstand weather exposure. Examples of outdoor fitness equipment suitable for outdoor gyms include outdoor cardio machines and outdoor weight machines.
By considering the location of the outdoor fitness equipment, you can choose equipment that is suitable for the intended users and can withstand weather exposure and heavy use.
Installation of Outdoor Fitness Equipment
Installing outdoor fitness equipment requires careful consideration and planning to ensure that it is installed safely and correctly. Site preparation, equipment placement, assembly and installation, and maintenance and inspection are all critical factors that need to be considered when installing outdoor fitness equipment. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your outdoor fitness equipment is safe and functional for years to come.
At Outdoor Workout Supply we sell our equipment all throughout the US and Canada. We don't keep an installation team on staff, but over the years we've learned how to connect our customers with local professionals to help bridge the gap between purchasing equipment and having it installed at their respective locations. In order to see if we can arrange this for you, please reach out to us at Sales@outdoorworkoutsupply.com, or contact us - HERE
Conclusion
Outdoor fitness equipment provides an opportunity for people to exercise in a natural setting while enjoying the benefits of fresh air and sunshine. However, purchasing outdoor fitness equipment requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure the equipment meets the needs of the intended users and location.
Before purchasing outdoor fitness equipment, it is essential to consider the intended users, whether it is children, adults, or seniors, and their fitness levels. The location of the equipment is also crucial, with different locations such as parks, schools, and playgrounds requiring different types of equipment.
The types of equipment needed should also be considered, with various options such as strength, cardio, stretching, and weightlifting available. Budget is also an essential factor, with different equipment types and brands varying in price.
By taking these factors into account and conducting thorough research, you can choose the most suitable outdoor fitness equipment for your needs and ensure a safe and enjoyable workout experience for users.
Overall, investing in outdoor fitness equipment can promote healthy lifestyles and improve community well-being. With proper consideration and planning, purchasing outdoor fitness equipment can be a rewarding investment for any organization or community.
To shop all outdoor fitness equipment - HERE
To read about the benefits of adding outdoor fitness equipment for your community - HERE