Australian fitness first for Logan
Published: 12 August 2011
Councillor Smith tries out the new fitness equipment
One of Logan's most popular parks is now home to an Australian first - a fitness circuit which James Bond himself would be proud of.
A $200,000 investment has seen the installation of a unique Parkour Circuit at Riverdale Park in Meadowbrook.
Divisional Councillor Luke Smith, who officially opened the new facility this morning (Friday 12 August), confirmed the installation of the customised Lappset Group Ltd equipment was the first public display of its kind in Australia.
"To be the first public location in the country with Lappset's specially designed equipment is a real coup for Logan," he said.
"The circuit is based on the non-competitive physical discipline of Parkour, which originated in France and has risen in popularity in recent years following its use in numerous action movies, including Casino Royale.
"Its fundamental philosophy is to get from A to B as nimbly and quickly as possible while negotiating both mental and physical obstacles; with speed, efficiency and utility being the main goals of the fast paced discipline to allow a speedy escape or rapid access to someone in danger."
Cr Smith said Riverdale Park's unique circuit would provide an alternative method of keeping fit and also had a multitude of learning and rehabilitation benefits.
"This circuit utilises the very best of Lappset's customised products including a spider cage, gibbonswing, pyramid climber and precision balls," he said.
"Each piece of the circuit has its own benefits which reach beyond the realm of the Parkour discipline. Other potential uses for the circuit include the opportunity to use it as a training device for personal trainers and bootcamp organisers as well as with professional instruction for rehabilitation purposes or physical and intellectual development.
"It will no doubt prove a big hit with Parkour enthusiasts, and those interested in taking up the discipline, from across Logan and beyond."
Brisbane Parkour Spokesperson, Alex Cutriss, who provided a demonstration of the equipment at today's launch, said he was pleased to see Logan City Council embrace the Parkour discipline.
"It's great to see a local council thinking progressively and installing a dedicated circuit in a local park. Having public Parkour equipment is fantastic, and this will certainly inspire other cities to follow suit." he said.
"The new circuit will provide the community with many opportunities to be physically active."