State-of-the-art energy generating gym equipment installed at King George V Playing Fields

The new exercise bikes – the first of their kind to be installed in the borough - harness the power of the human body to generate green electricity which is used to provide contactless charging for phones, tablets and other small devices.

Manufactured by The Great Outdoor Gym Company, the new bikes have been funded through a £20,000 National Lottery grant secured by Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council together with Hertfordshire Sports and Physical Activity Partnership and Funding 4 Sport.

The equipment - a Power Smart Hand Bike, Power Smart Re-Cycle Bike, and Power Smart Recumbent Bike - is suitable for all age groups and fitness levels, with no prior experience required. The Power Smart Hand Bike can be used by able-bodied users, wheelchair users, and people with lower limb mobility issues or injuries. Signage next to the bikes explains how the equipment works and how to use it safely.

The outdoor gym is one of a series of improvements to King George V Playing Fields. The Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) has also been upgraded with a new porous macadam surface, providing better grip for users and better ball control. The MUGA can be used throughout the week, with no booking required. At the skatepark, a new mural is being painted by two local artists to give the space a refresh which will help transform it into a more welcoming and engaging environment.

Councillor Jane Quinton, Deputy Leader and Executive Member, Leisure and Community said:

“Promoting health and wellbeing is a priority for the Council so I am delighted that this state-of-the-art, accessible equipment has been installed at King George V Planning Fields. The new outdoor gym is a great way to keep fit while charging your device in an environmentally friendly way and, along with the upgrades to the MUGA surface and skatepark mural, make King George V a great place for all the family to enjoy.”

Adrian Ledbury from Hertfordshire Sports and Physical Activity Partnership said:

“We’re thrilled to have worked with Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and partners to bring this state-of-the-art outdoor gym equipment to King George V Playing Fields. Not only will the new equipment provide an inclusive and accessible way for people of all ages and abilities to get active, but it also harnesses green technology to benefit the wider community.”