Elavumthitta: Now, you don't have to shell out money for that fit body. Five open gymnasiums would be opened in the Pathanamthitta district for the public.
A project of the state health department, the gyms are being set up with the cooperation from the local self-government bodies. The fitness centres would be set up at the district level, Pathanamthitta municipality, Chenneerkara, Othara, and Ranni panchayats. Land for setting up the gyms would be identified soon.
Irrespective of the age, the public can make use the gym for free. The health department has earmarked Rs 3 lakh for setting up gyms at panchayats and municipality, while Rs 5 lakh for the district-level gym. The funds have been sanctioned for buying equipment and repair works.
Each open gym requires 10 ultra-modern equipment. The department stipulates a minimum of eight equipment at each gym depending on the space limitations.
Air walker, single skier; leg, waist, back and shoulder shapers; knee chair, cycle, and shoulder wheel, among others would be procured.
The health department has spearheaded the project to encourage exercises and eliminate lifestyle diseases.
The gym can be used from 6am to 8.30am and 5pm to 9.30pm. Family healthcare centres are tasked with supervision and operational activities. Work has begun on starting the gyms in three panchayats. The health department officials said that the gyms would become functional in early 2020 itself.
