Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Due to the expanding population aging phenomenon, public spaces must be redesigned architecturally to make them accessible to the elderly. Motivating people to engage in physical activity is crucial because outdoor exercise positively impacts seniors' well-being. Outdoor gyms, which serve as meeting spots, places to work out, and locations for daily walks, play a significant role in this context. This article aimed to analyze existing outdoor gyms as public spaces available to the oldest residents of Gdańsk, Poland. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study analyzed outdoor gyms located in Gdańsk. It assessed accessibility within the city structure (distance from the nearest residential building and public transportation stops) and architectural solutions used in implementing the facilities (the degree of shading of the area where the gym is located, the presence of artificial lighting at the gym, the type of surface, and the number and type of exercise equipment). RESULTS: Seventy four gyms were surveyed as part of the fieldwork carried out. CONCLUSIONS: Existing gyms require correction in terms of adaptation to older people's needs and consider a broader spectrum of their needs. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2025;76(4):249-257.
Source: Medycyna Pracy
Institution: Gdańsk University of Technology
Language: English
Topic: Urban Green Space and Health
Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $539
OpenAlex ID: W4411328967