New outdoor gyms have officially opened across the borough, giving fitness fanatics the chance to work-out in the open air for free.

Barnet Borough Council has unveiled the al fresco gyms in parks around the borough, which are free to use for anyone who is 14-years-old and above.

The new equipment consists of a mix of cardio, strength and toning machines and includes exercise equipment suitable for wheelchair users.

There will also be instructors on hand to offer advice to new users at the outdoor gyms in Friary Park, Childs Hill Park, Watling Park, Hendon Park, Edgwarebury Park, Barnet Playing Fields and Mill Hill Park.

Councillor Helena Hart, chairman of the borough’s health and wellbeing board, said: “These new outdoor gyms are a fantastic way of helping residents to get fit and enjoy some of our beautiful parks at the same time.

“These super new facilities will be able to give people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to improve their fitness levels and become more active.”

The gyms cost £140,000 and have been funded mainly by the council’s new public health department in conjunction with the green spaces department.

Barnet and Harrow’s director of public health, Dr Andrew Howe, said: “Our residents have told us that cost, time, quality of facilities and lack of transport are some barriers which stop them taking part in exercise.

“I hope these great new outdoor gyms will help break down these barriers and encourage them to get out and exercising during the summer months and beyond.”