Hong Kong, SAR: Fitness Stations Make For More Than Just A Walk In The Park
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-10-25 15:10:00-04:00
Hong Kong, SAR: Fitness Stations Make For More Than Just A Walk In The Park
What do Sham Shui Po Park, Ma On Shan, Tseung Kawn O, and Tin Shui Wai have in common? They are some of the first sites chosen by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Regional Government to install “Elderly Fitness Centers.” Initially, the regional government selected five Hong Kong parks in which to build exercise units for aging citizens. The “Elderly Fitness Stations” were so well received by the Hong Kong older community that the park management insisted on installing more. Currently, 92 locations have over 10 different types of senior-oriented equipment, and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department promises to build additional stations in areas convenient for seniors. Population policy experts from the public, private, and academic sectors are among those pushing for “Active Aging” projects to be continuously implemented in order to promote learning and a healthy lifestyle at all ages.
So just what exactly do these stations do to promote active aging? The equipment provides the older adult with the means to exercise and remain active while enjoying the outdoors. The machines work a variety of muscles from the shoulders down to the knees, and improve cardiovascular fitness and respiratory health. For example, the Ring Walk and the Push Hand work the shoulders, arms, and elbows, while the Twister and Stepper and the Bicycle Stepper focus on the lower body muscle groups. Additional machines include the Rider, Tai Chi Wheels, Pull-down Machine, Upper Back Stretch, Calf Stretch, Climbing Shoulder Stretch, Back Stretch & Push-Ups, Bicycle Stepper, Up & Down Station, and Stepping Platform. When seniors combine the different machines with a walk around the park, they have received an entire body workout.
For more information, visit: Ma On Shan Park, Leisure and Cultural Services Department, http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/parks/mosp/en/index.php
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