A few parks we've visited in California have exercise equipment in the park. Only one we've discovered has a fun series of workout stations that take you through a 30 minute regimen. It is in Huntington Beach, California's Central Park located along Golden West Street between Central Park Drive and Slater.

The exercise course moves throughout a loop trail along a series of cement paths and includes pull up bars, sit-ups, jumps, bends, and a variety of activities to exercise many of the body's muscles. You'll see adults and children doing the activities together with instructions on the equipment for low impact exercise options as well as the "in fit" workout.  Set along green lawns, towering eucalyptus trees with their fragrant scent, and amongst a park known to birders as a place to see baby owls up in the nests in the spring, the atmosphere to exercise is invigorating.  For tourists visiting it's a great way to have a little workout without having to check into a gym. The parking on the hills above (parking on Gothard or near Central Library on Central Park Drive) both provide free stress-free parking to enjoy the facilities the park offers.

There are 350 acres of park in this complex of buildings lawns, paths and open spaces. One to two seasonal lakes grace the grounds that span two sides of busy Golden West Street.  Two cafes, equestrian, dog park and a sports complex with rental feels and batting cages are all included, along with the Shipley Nature Center and a frisbee disc golf course. There's just so much at this park that we keep forgetting about all its attractions and activities.

So if you've been putting off that "get in shape - lose some weight" mode of operation, now you can do it free while getting sunshine and a natural outdoor setting.  To find the exercise course, park in the back of library building near the shade trees and head down the hill, following the path either right or left till you arrive at one of the stations where you can begin your journey of healthy fun.