Düsseldorf offers sports in the park for those whose New Year's resolution is to get fit

The Sports in the Park initiative has mixed a healthy lifestyle with social events during times of pandemic restrictions

On 6 January, the city of Düsseldorf will kick off the ‘Sport im Park-Winteredition’ (Sports in the Park – winter Edition). ‘Sports in the park’ is a popular initiative by the city’s department of sports, that aims to bring people together outside and push them towards a healthier lifestyle. Though outdoor sports are usually done in the summer, this winter’s edition will offer citizens amazing opportunities lasting until April 2022.

Why do ‘Sports in the Park’?

Sports in the Park is a free, non-binding initiative in Düsseldorf, that aims to help people exercise and do group activates. Especially in the last couple of years, since the start of the pandemic, going outside, training and meeting large groups of people has become very important for a lot of people.

The initiative is free and is aimed at both sporty and inexperienced types, as well as people with or without disabilities. The main focus is promoting a healthier lifestyle and helping people develop good habits and offering opportunities to socialise. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sports in the park has become quite popular and successful at bringing people outside to exercise.

For example, the summer edition kicked off in early June and finished in October. During that time, the city brought in trainers that taught 38 sports sessions per week around the city. These included Zumba, Pilates, Yoga, Parkour, Calisthenics, Tai Chi and Power Fitness.

Start the new year with good intentions

After the summer edition ended, local authorities issued a survey to gauge the success of the programme and an overwhelming 85% of participants said they wanted to participate in a winter edition. This makes it perfect for people who plan to start the new year with a gust of motivation and determination.

The city will offer courses in intensive fitness training, functional fitness training and Zumba. All Covid-measures for outdoor gatherings will apply. Training will take place every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, come rain or shine, workday or public holiday.