Exercise enthusiasts and sun worshippers alike have praised the recently open outdoor gym equipment in Lloyd Park.

Virginia Munoz, 36, of Winns Avenue, said: “I think it’s great we can exercise outdoors.

“Since they’ve put it in the equipment has been busy all the time with both kids and adults – plus it’s free.”

The council-funded fitness gear in the park, off Forest Road, includes trainers, exercise bikes, shoulder press and pull-up equipment.

The gym, situated next to the basketball courts and skate park, is proving popular with people of all ages and is being well-used.

Andra Gheorghe, 25, of Markhouse road, said: “I think it’s very useful, it’s good quality and it’s free.

“Usually you have to pay a monthly fee to get this and for it to be outside is good.

“I would definitely recommend it, it’s really nice to be outside.”

A fitness instructor will also be provided by the council to be on-site on Mondays and Wednesday from 10am until noon and from 5pm until 6pm to help newcomers get to grips with the machines.

The gym was formally opened on May 22 by Cllr Ahsan Khan, the council's cabinet member for health and wellbeing, who was joined by William Morris and Chapel End ward councillors in putting the new kit through its paces.

Cllr Khan said: “While there are tonnes of opportunities to stay active across Waltham Forest I think this is a great way for local people to get fit for free or to give gym equipment a go without having to commit to a monthly membership.

“It gives local people yet another reason to visit one of the borough’s best-loved parks as well as allowing fitness fanatics the chance to factor something a little bit different into their existing fitness regimes.”

He added that the fitness instructor would be able to help residents familiarise themselves with workout techniques and give them friendly tips on how to use the outdoor gym safely and sensibly.