Work begins on adiZone
Work has begun on the installation of a giant multi-purpose outdoor gym in Tewkesbury - the only one of its kind in the South West.The Count Me In! adiZone has been jointly funded through the Government's Healthy Town programme and adidas.
Andy Sanders, head of physical activity for Count Me In!, said: "We've received lots of enthusiastic feedback from the local community who are eager to start using the adiZone, which will be the only one in the South West. We're sure people of all ages will use the adiZone as a fun and exciting way to be healthy as part of the Count Me In! programme."
The Government-funded Count Me In! programme, which is running across Tewkesbury to encourage healthier lifestyles for all ages, has been working with adidas – the official sportswear partner of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games - to install the permanent installation.
Measuring 625sq metres, the gym boasts sporting facilities inspired by Olympic and Paralympic sports, including a basketball, football and tennis area, a climbing wall, an outdoor gym and an open area to encourage dance, aerobics and gymnastics.
Free to use, and open 365 days a year, the adiZone is anticipated to be fully operations within six weeks, weather permitting.
The Count Me In! adiZone will provide a place where people in Tewkesbury can meet socially whilst being encouraged to play sports. Local coaches and sports club organisers will be invited to attend the site, to spot talent and encourage young people to join local clubs and sporting organisations. AdiZones were initially installed by adidas in four of the London 2012 host boroughs, and are now being introduced to towns and cities across the UK as the Olympic and Paralympic Games preparation increases.