THE BTCV Green Gym is an innovative project that will help keep you in trim while doing your bit for the community.
It offers an alternative approach to exercise by running outdoor conservation projects such as planting trees, clearing hedgerows or creating community gardens.
The sessions take place every Wednesday and every first Sunday of the month with participants taking part in planned projects in the local and surrounding area.
Carrie Edge, who has been running sessions in Waltham Forest since they began in October 2003, said: "A lot of people of all ages come for health reasons. We provide tools, training and tea, coffee and biscuits during breaks.
"The sessions are becoming more popular and we are seeing a real increase in the number of people attending the Sunday sessions."
The Green Gym manages to strike an important balance between benefiting the environment and the community, and being an activity which is fun, free and social.
Research has shown that taking part in regular sessions can improve cardiovascular fitness, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Almost a third more calories can be burnt in an hour taking part in a Green Gym session than in doing a step aerobics class.
The sense of belonging gained from working in a team is also said to have helped people suffering from the effects of social exclusion and depression.
Jane York began attending the sessions in September. She said: "I really enjoy it, I love physical activities. With the Green Gym, you can just work at your own pace.
"I've been to a gym, but it's not for me. This is outside in the fresh air, there is nothing competitive about it and it is free."
The Green Gym is not an easy ride however. The sessions involve hard, physical work.
Jane said: "To begin with you feel a bit guilty, cutting down these little trees. But you're doing it so they can grow properly. It is hard work and I have to say it exhausts you, but when you see what you've done it's very satisfying.
"Hedge-laying started before Christmas, and I really love doing that. Even the litter picking is satisfying, although it can be a bit depressing when you go back there and people have littered the area all over again."
This month's sessions have included coppicing at the Essex Filter Beds in Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, and hedge-laying at Waltham Way Nature Reserve, Walthamstow.
Coppicing at the Essex Filter Beds is also scheduled for next Wednesday.
Participation is free, and sessions last from 1pm to 4pm on Wednesdays and 10am to 1pm on Sundays.
If you would like to attend, meet Carrie and the rest of the team at the BTCV Green Gym offices at 1 Connaught Close (off Lea Bridge Road, opposite the riding stables) where you will find a row of cottages. Parking is available. A minibus is supplied for transport to the project sites.
For further information contact Carrie Edge on 8726 0974.
