A “Green Gym” has started in Cassiobury Park, offering volunteers an alternative fitness regime while preserving the environment.
TCV – The Conservation Volunteers – welcome people of all abilities to get involved in practical conservation projects, with an emphasis on health and wellbeing.
As well as maintaining the environment, members of the Cassiobury Park Green Gym plan to plant a wildlife-friendly orchard and create new eco-friendly habitats. The scheme, which The Department of Health recognises can enhance mental well-being, incorporates a warm up before activities and time to cool down. The hands-on nature of the project provides an opportunity to learn new skills, gardening techniques and improve stamina – all for free.
Speaking at the launch, Watford’s mayor Dorothy Thornhill said: “The Green Gym project has really taken off in Watford - I know the volunteers at Colne River Park have done some great work. I am sure it will do just as well in Cassiobury Park.”
Past success stories at other TCV locations in Watford include The Big Tree Plant in Radlett Park, where volunteers planted 1500 woodland trees. Green Gym Project Officer Michele Taylor recently commended the “invaluable” support and funding from Watford Borough Council and intu Watford.
The Cassiobury Park Green Gym meets at 9.45am every Wednesday outside the Cha Cha Cha café, and runs from 10.00am to 1.00pm. More information can be found on at TCV, or to book a place contact GG-Watford@tcv.org.uk, or call 07717 494 476.
Written by Sophie Wolf
(Source: Watford Borough Council)