The ‘Motor Paradox’ of outdoor fitness spaces

In recent decades, outdoor gyms have gained increasing popularity as an innovative solution to promote physical activity among various segments of the population. These spaces, often located in parks and gardens, offer an accessible and free alternative to traditional gyms, allowing for strength and mobility training. However, their evolution has led to the introduction of stationary equipment derived from indoor gyms, raising design and functional issues, particularly for aerobic training. This phenomenon has given rise to what we introduce for the first time as the “Motor Paradox,” where users who already engage in natural aerobic activities, such as walking or cycling, find themselves using stationary machines, thus reducing the dynamic potential of the outdoor environment. The major challenges include the lack of constructive guidelines for the equipment and insufficient customization, limiting the effectiveness of outdoor gyms, especially for the older adults and individuals with specific needs. Studies show that physical activity in green spaces amplifies psychological and physical benefits, reducing stress and improving cardiovascular health. Addressing these challenges will improve the effectiveness of outdoor gyms as a tool for public health promotion.