The number of public fitness parks has grown in Budapest in recent years, which is great news for those wanting to stay in shape during the pandemic. Of course, they’re also free to use, and even though the weather is getting colder, that doesn’t mean we can’t head outdoors for training!
There
are two types of outdoor gyms: those with machines similar to those you would
find at a traditional gym – equipment for exercising your arms, legs, abdominal
muscles, etc – and the more simple street fitness options, with stationary
equipment you must move around.
One is not necessarily better than the
other, and it is a misconception that they’re only used as casual or practice spots. In fact, real communities have developed among the
fitness-minded here in Budapest, with groups preparing their training plans and
schedules together. Those wishing to try can check out this
user-created map which lists all the outdoor fitness options that Budapest has
to offer.
1/8
II. János Pál pápa tér
Those
living near Keleti station or Blaha Lujza tér can take the time to check out the street
workout park at II. János Pál pápa tér. It is located on the Erkel Theatre
side, away from traffic. In fact it’s a little hard to find, but that’s what
makes it such a good choice. Nine machines can be found here for muscle
strengthening, including those for abdominal and back strength, and a
double-leg workout machine which is great for training with a partner.
2/8
Nehru part
During
its 2015 reconstruction, major improvements were added to the outdoor training
park at Nehru part, including plants, colourful seating, a playground and
washbasins. Cycling and skateboarding tracks, as well as a basketball court and
fitness park are all included, as well as walking machines and workout
equipment for the legs and abdominal muscles.
3/8
Goldmann György tér
In
the fitness park located on the university side of the bridge, even gymnasts can find
equipment suited to their workout needs. The design comes from HBH, a Hungarian
industrial designer and manufacturer of street workout and boulder-climbing
sport parks. There is also a skateboard track nearby, so all visitors have
something they can use and enjoy.
4/8
Bikás park
Bikás
park has a long history in Budapest. The running track is
extremely popular, and there’s a streetball court which draws
groups in for friendly games. A range of high-quality exercise equipment
is also available, including detailed instructions on how to use
it, great for beginners. Some of the machines include
a stationary bike and lat-pulldown machines, as well as basketball and football
courts.
5/8
Feneketlen-tó
The Bottomless Lake in Újbuda is not only a beautiful place to enjoy the nature,
but also fitted out with a rubber running track and complete outdoor fitness
area. Here, too, instructions for each machine are clearly marked, as well as
indicating difficulty levels. The park is within easy walking
distance of focal Kosztolányi Dezső tér.
6/8
Népliget
Népliget
is the largest public park in Budapest, and so it’s no surprise that we find an
outdoor fitness area on Soó Miksa sétány near Vajda Péter utca. Due to
the park’s size, the smaller concentration of visitors means
there are fewer passers-by to distract those working out, which is helpful if
anyone feels a little shy about exercising in public. In fact, deep within the
trees, you feel completely alone, away from the sounds of cars
and city life.
7/8
Városmajor
If
approaching by tram, alight at Nyúl utca, and immediately you’ll find
yourself surrounded by fitness options. This forested parkland at the base of
the Buda Hills offers a
variety of free outdoor exercise equipment, as well as
a modern parkour course, basketball and football on illuminated courts, a
tennis wall and a rubberised running track.
8/8
Városliget
Városliget
has undergone a massive expansion when it comes to its outdoor fitness
facilities, so those who haven’t visited in a while may feel like
they’ve come to a completely different park! Old, weathered sports courts
have been renovated and supplemented with options including
football, basketball, volleyball and foot-tennis. There are also new features for
children to play on, and exercise courses for dogs. The
full array of new exercise equipment and courts can be found not far from the
intersection of Stefánia út and Ajtósi Dürer sor.
