Tatu City, the 5,000-acre mixed-use development with Special Economic Zone status on Wednesday, officially opened the doors to one of Kenya’s largest and most professionally equipped outdoor gym.
The facility, now open to the public and free of charge, has quickly become a focal point for fitness and recreation within Tatu City’s growing community and surrounding neighbourhoods.
The gym, which features an array of advanced workout equipment such as sky steppers, double health walkers, and rowers, provides a versatile and accessible outdoor fitness space designed to cater to everyone from beginners to fitness enthusiasts.
Paired with a thoughtfully designed children’s play area complete with swings, slides, and climbing structures, the facility offers a fun and engaging environment for families, making it a one-stop destination for leisure and well-being.
Angela Muthoga, Events and Sustainability Manager at Tatu City, said that the launch of the outdoor gym and play area marks an exciting chapter in the development of Tatu City.
“We are committed to offering our residents, businesses, and the general public world-class facilities that enhance their quality of life. This gym is more than just a place to exercise; it is a space for the community to come together, stay active, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Tatu City. A healthy nation is a wealthy nation,” said Muthoga.
The outdoor gym is part of Sports@Tatu, a recreational hub with a 5-aside football AstroTurf pitch and a standard-sized basketball court.
Kanana Ndegwa, Head of Marketing at Unity Homes in Tatu City, said they are thrilled to partner with Tatu City to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.
“As the leading property developer in affordable housing, we focus on creating integrated living spaces with recreational spaces. The outdoor gym and the general Sports@Tatu facility complement our mission to offer affordable, family-friendly homes surrounded by ample green spaces and modern amenities,” she added.
Additionally, Tatu City’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles has over 100 kilometres of pedestrian walkways, cycling paths, and nature trails that wind through the development’s lush landscape.
These trails are connected by The Green Link, a sustainable network designed to link green spaces and enhance accessibility for outdoor activities.
Tatu City’s passion for sports has spurred continuous innovation in health and fitness. This year, the city proudly hosted the largest running event in Kiambu County, attracting over 5,000 participants. A thrilling cycling event also saw more than 500 professional cyclists racing along the city’s captivating trails.
The outdoor gym is located at City Park, next to Unity Homes, and operates daily, from 6 am to 9 pm, with no entry charge. Patrons are encouraged to observe the rules and regulations to ensure safety while exercising.
In Kenya and the East African region, outdoor gyms are a growing trend, driven by increasing awareness of health benefits, social media influence, and technology integration.
Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, when many traditional gyms were forced to close, fitness enthusiasts and trainers started to embrace open-air workout spaces in parks, nature trails, and residential estates.
These gyms offer free access to communities and encourage a healthier, more active lifestyle, particularly in lower-income areas with limited access to commercial gyms.
By Wangari Ndirangu