Photo: Silvet Ali
Users try out the new Adductor and Abductor machine at Hamilton Park .

Following an announcement made last spring, Rosemère Mayor Hélène Daneault and city councillor Wendy Gurd helped officially unveil the brand new outdoor exercise equipment at Hamilton Park behind Galeries Mille-Îles shopping centre on June 29. It was a rainy afternoon but that did not stop Daneault, Gurd, and several others on hand to hop on and get moving.
Daneault first made the special announcement last year after being inspired by a similar endeavor in Sherbrooke. "I thought it was an excellent idea. Our parks need to adapt to a new clientele and many of our citizens are baby boomers. This is equipment that can be used by people of all ages, and it's free and accessible all year round," stated Daneault.

Six in total
Situated near the tennis courts and play ground, the six pieces of equipment can be used by one or two people at a time and certain units lend themselves to more than one function. Therefore, as many as ten differences exercises can be practiced on the equipment. "Once a person completes the circuit, they will have used virtually every muscle in their body and increased their blood circulation," explained Daneault.
Made in Germany, the six devices by Saysu Inc. are a $32 000 investment and are now an integral part of the decor at Hamilton Park. Parents of young children were kept in mind when deciding the final placement of the equipment, which is right next to the play ground. This will allow parents to both use the equipment and keep an eye on their children.

A first in the region
Daneault was especially proud of the project since it is a first for the region and is hoping to implement the equipment in other parks. "People have already asked for the equipment in Charbonneau Park. The investment is relatively low and it is beneficial," explained Daneault.
Hamilton Park was chosen as the first site to have the equipment due to its proximity to baby boomers (45-65 years old) which the equipment is generally aimed at. "It's an age group particularly targeted in this project, but everyone can benefit from it," said Daneault. Access is completely free and there is no set schedule allowing users to enjoy the equipment when convenient. Equipment includes a bike, stepper, air walker and hip machine.