It’s that time of year again when many of us decide to swap the sofa for the gym to work off all those mince pies.

Ilford Recorder: Outdoor gym equipment at Seven Kings ParkOutdoor gym equipment at Seven Kings Park (Image: Redbridge Council)

But instead of forking out for a pricy membership – only to cancel it in June after six months of guilt over not using it – try heading to Redbridge’s parks.

More outdoor gym equipment is being installed to improve residents’ health and fitness.

Cllr Mark Santos, cabinet member for health and social care, said: “Our outdoor gyms are very popular and attract a whole range of different people as they are easily accessible, enjoyable to use and more importantly beneficial to keeping fit and healthy.

“Physical activity has many health benefits including reducing the risk of preventable diseases, improving mental wellbeing and increasing the chance of staying independent in later life.”

Ilford Recorder: Outdoor gym equipment at Manford ParkOutdoor gym equipment at Manford Park (Image: Redbridge Council)

Recommendations in this year’s public health report, which is themed on physical activity, were to provide facilities for getting people active as part of their everyday lives.

To remain healthy, the report says all adults should be active for at least two and half hours per week.

Eight outdoor gyms have been installed over the past eight years to help residents exercise for free.

The three new gyms have received £90,000 of council investment and will be managed by Vision RCL.

They will be at Loxford Park, Loxford Lane, Ilford; Seven Kings Park, High Road, Seven Kings; and Manford Way open space, Hainault.

Gyms are already in place at Barkingside Recreation Ground, Claybury Woods, Clayhall Park, Goodmayes Park, Hainault Recreation Ground, Ray Park, Valentines Park and South Park.

To read the annual public health report visit redbridge.gov.uk/redbridgeonthemove