Discover the Exercise Garden in Terschelling, The Netherlands
Exercise is essential, and outdoor activities offer numerous benefits. Recognizing this, De Stilen Physiotherapy Practice and Care Center in Terschelling opened the Exercise Garden, De Omloop, in early September 2023. This unique space invites residents and islanders to come together for exercise, relaxation, and social interaction.
Rendering of an Exercise Garden featuring senior sports equipment, benches, tables, and pathways.
Features of the Exercise Garden
The Exercise Garden boasts various senior sports equipment, relaxation zones, and boot camp equipment. It's designed to be inclusive, ensuring everyone can participate, meet, relax, and stay active.
The Exercise Garden was born from the sports agreement of the Terschelling municipality, which aimed to encourage physical activity among all residents, especially those for whom exercise is not a given. Physiotherapy Terschelling was tasked with developing this concept. A diverse project group, including physiotherapists, an activities supervisor, a volunteer coordinator, and a client council member, collaborated to transform an old square into a vibrant exercise garden. After presenting and refining their plan with input from De Stilen’s management, residents, and tenants, they proceeded with the project.
Fundraising Efforts
The project group, alongside the Friends of De Stilen Foundation, engaged in various fundraising activities to bring the garden to life. Efforts included writing to funding organizations, applying for grants, and organizing local events like selling garden square meters, baking cakes, hosting a Christmas market, a puzzle tour, and a flea market. These efforts successfully raised the necessary funds, showcasing the community's commitment to this beautiful initiative.
"The strength of the Exercise Garden is its accessibility and challenge for everyone," says Rianne van der Wal, Physiotherapist at Terschelling.
Accessibility and Engagement
The garden invites everyone to garden, walk, meet, move, and enjoy its amenities. Central to this experience is the inclusion of easily accessible and engaging senior sports equipment. Lappset's exercise equipment was chosen for its suitability for both mobile and less mobile residents, fitting seamlessly into the envisioned garden atmosphere.
Seniors and children are participating in an outdoor activity at the Exercise Garden in Terschelling
Community Reactions
The new garden has received positive feedback from De Stilen residents, local inhabitants, and other islanders. While some were initially hesitant, the space is now embraced by many. This winter, the garden will undergo further enhancements by the gardener and enthusiastic garden club volunteers, ensuring even more frequent use of the exercise equipment, relaxation areas, and vegetable garden. September 2023 was designated as "September Exercise Month," featuring weekly boot camp classes and exercise sessions for seniors and local children.
"We are very satisfied with Lappset Nederland. We were always dealing with a small number of people, this kept the lines of communication short. Everyone remained very sympathetic in realizing the experience and exercise garden as quickly as possible."
Rianne van der Wal - Physiotherapist Terschelling
Functional Benefits
The Exercise Garden serves as a vital meeting point for all ages. De Stilen utilizes the space for joint activities, sports, and various games. Looking ahead, the garden aims to become a regular spot for seniors and youth to engage in physical activities together. Additionally, the garden provides a functional outdoor space for physiotherapy practice, allowing exercise therapy sessions to be conducted in a natural environment.
The Exercise Garden in Terschelling exemplifies how thoughtful planning and community effort can create a space that promotes health, wellness, and social interaction. It's a testament to the power of community spirit and the importance of accessible outdoor exercise spaces for seniors and all residents.