Volunteer coaches are needed to help others take up exercise by demonstrating equipment at new outdoor gyms

Barnet Borough Council has installed outdoor gym equipment in parks and is looking for people to help teach others how to use it.

The scheme, part of the authority’s Fit and Active Barnet campaign, is being launched by Middlesex University in Hendon.

Mel Parker, head of sport at the university, said: “For people who haven’t participated in any kind of fitness activity before, there’s a fear about not knowing what to do.

“Having someone on hand to help them build confidence will benefit the health of the community.

“Physical activities can help stave off obesity, so it’s important people know about the benefits of it.”

The ‘al fresco’ fitness areas in parks across the borough feature rowing machines, twisting equipment and exercise and cardio machines.

They are located at Barnet Playing Fields, Childs Hill, Edgwarebury Park, Friary Park, Oak Hill, Hendon Park and Watling Park.

For more information, click here.