Play time! Age no longer a barrier to getting physical - opening of pensioners' Hyde Park playground

Published: 28 May 2010
by JAMIE WELHAM and DALLIA ABDEL MONIEM

GIVING a whole new meaning to the expression swinging sixties, a £50,000 pensioners’ playground has opened in Hyde Park.

The playground is fitted with six machines including a cross-trainer, sit-up bench and exercise bike, each designed for the over-60s, although the council has said it will spare younger users the humiliation of showing ID.

It is located in the  park pavilion tennis and bowls centre, and was joint-funded by Westminster City Council and the Royal Parks at the request of  the Knightsbridge Association.

Madeline Elsdon from the association said: “There are so few facilities for older people in our parks and many older people find indoor gyms expensive and intimidating with all that firm flesh on show. It will also give a chance for people to socialise and have fun. You’re never too old to play.”

It was a hit with Eve Margolis, 79, who said: “It’s a great way to keep fit. I’ll be a regular because the location is simply beautiful.”

Mark Camley, chief executive of The Royal Parks, said: “This is a fantastic new facility and we believe that it’s going to be very popular among the five million people who visit Hyde Park each year. With the Albert Memorial in the background you would be hard pushed to find a better view from any gym in London.”