NEW specialist outdoor fitness equipment has been installed on hospital grounds.

University Hospital Llandough now has 'fitness stations' for use by patients, staff and visitors.

They have been designed specifically for open public spaces and are available to adults of all ages.

A Welsh health survey from 2013 revealed only 26 percent of adults in Cardiff and the Vale University Health Board (UHB) area reach recommended physical activity levels.

Simone Joslyn Clinical, project lead at Cardiff and Vale UHB, said: “Physical activity and exercise is important in increasing people’s health and wellbeing and through providing this outdoor fitness area Cardiff and Vale UHB are committed to improving access for all visitors to the site to take part in some level of fitness activity. It is proven that physical exercise can help with a patient’s recovery and this enables patients at Llandough to carry out some form of exercise at their own pace which could speed up their time spent recuperating and have a positive effect on their overall wellbeing.”

The new equipment comes courtesy of funding from Cardiff and Vale Health Charity

Katie Mallam, fundraising and communications manager, added: "It’s a testament to the hard work and determination of our fundraisers and donors that Cardiff & Vale Health Charity can support new and innovative projects like this at University Hospital Llandough. In this case, it’s proceeds from the weekly Staff Lottery that have paid for the outdoor fitness equipment. We know this area will be a focal point at UHL and of real benefit to patients, staff and visitors."