outdoor gym in Marbäck

In Marbäck, there is a strong tradition of community and activities for all ages. When the interest grew for a new meeting place focused on movement and health, the sports association took the initiative to create an outdoor gym — and the result has quickly become a valued gathering point.

The work began with the small cottage that stood on the site being demolished. After that, planning, earthworks, and purchases could start. During the process, the landowner cleared all the spruce in the area, which opened up for a new and better location for the gym. Both the outdoor gym and the associated no-touch-ground course ended up further from the road, creating a safer and more nature-close environment.

The engagement in Marbäck has been great. The project group handled the planning, and the village's residents helped with the construction of both the gym and the barbecue area and obstacle course. Local businesses also contributed – among other things, with volunteer time and timber that would otherwise have been discarded. The barbecue area was built from fallen trees, concrete posts that were already on the site, and a concrete ring donated by a private individual.

When everything was ready, around 100 people gathered for the inauguration with sausage grilling, a quiz walk, and ribbon cutting.

Joy of movement for the whole village

The new area has already become a lively meeting place. The gym consists of 13 stations, three of which have adjustable weights that allow both beginners and experienced exercisers to use them. The first training groups are already underway and meet every week. Recreation in Marbäck has also embraced the obstacle course and uses it during their forest outings.

Environmental thinking has been consistent. The gym is built in Sweden from Swedish larch, the choice of materials minimized transportation, and large parts of the other equipment are made from recycled or locally sourced natural materials. The site will continue to develop – the association plans more leader-led sessions and envisions that the area will be used for quiz walks and other activities for many years to come.

Excerpt from the final report:

”There has been a great voluntary engagement and interest in the project. It has been a topic of conversation in the village for a while, and many have gathered around it.”

The board's decision justification

The project creates a new meeting place that promotes health and well-being and collaborates between businesses, associations, and residents.