Tassie boot camps not cramped

WHILE Sydney councils crack down on outdoor fitness groups, and detractors brand them offensive and embarrassing, fitness fanatics in Launceston seem to be spoilt for space.

The Sydney Morning Herald this week reported that Waverley Council was sanctioning fitness groups that interfere with other people's right to common recreational services.

Several other metropolitan councils have established policies limiting group sizes and imposing exclusion zones, while the SMH also contacted leading fitness expert Garry Egger, who said outdoor personal training could embarrass onlookers and deter others from exercising.

Launceston City Council general manager Robert Dobrzynski said contested space was becoming more of a challenge for authorities in mainland metropolitan areas.

But Mr Dobrzynski said Launceston's 230 parks and 1000 hectares of free open space made it an ideal city for boot camp-style personal training.

"Our public space is one of the things that gives Launceston residents such a great work-life balance," he said.

"We've received no complaints about public fitness groups and don't see these groups as a problem.

"In fact, we have found the boot camp groups that do operate in Launceston are extremely considerate of other people."

Dale Kapper runs a boot camp that meets at the Launceston Rugby Park every week.

Mr Kapper said he had never received complaints from passers-by about his group's activities.

"We chose [the rugby park] specifically because it is a sporting ground," he said.

"There is a concrete wall between us and Royal Park, meaning we have privacy, and we are not interfering with anyone else."

Mr Kapper agreed fitness groups should, however, be aware of their location and surroundings.

"Obviously there are inappropriate places for outdoor fitness groups," he said.