Hosted in Sunniside, the event allowed people to take part in the city’s first urban hybrid challenge where participants were put through their paces with a circuit including rowing machines, cross trainers, skiing machines, slam balls, as well as traditional exercises such as burpees and running at stations across the course.
There were also family fun activities for kids of all ages to enjoy including mini tennis, swing ball, and taking on the climbing wall, as well as the chance to get your face painted or take on a competitor on the giant Connect 4.
The free event was organised by Dan Makaveli, director of Media Savvy, in conjunction with Everyone Active, and Active Sunderland, who funded the games.
Dan said: “Today’s activities can be taken part in by anyone of all ages. This event is all about improving the health of people in Sunderland.
“The ethos of today is about coming together as a community to promote healthy lifestyles. It’s also about removing some of the stigmas and barriers for people who may not naturally be into exercise and showing them that you don’t have to be an elite athlete or a marathon runner to get involved.”
Two participants who enjoyed the day were friends Lauren Flaxen, 42, from Fulwell, and Emma Owen, 41, from Tunstall.
Lauren said: “The fact this is a free event is fantastic as the cost of activities can sometimes be a massive barrier to people when it comes to exercise. Emma is new to fitness and so she has come along with me to take part today.”
Emma added: “I want to get my fitness back, and so I decided to take on this challenge. I’ve been really impressed with what I’ve seen.”
The equipment used at the event was provided by sports and leisure company, Everyone Active.
Area Contract Manager Ian Bradgate said: “Everyone Active is delighted to support the first Garden Games, incorporating the exciting new Urban Hybrid event.
“This fantastic new event brings together fitness, fun and family-friendly activities in the heart of the community, making the most of the incredible outdoor space Sunniside Gardens has to offer.”
5. Get those stretches in
Peter Bulmer stretching before taking part in Sunderland's first Garden Games. | Frank Reid
6. Friends getting fit
Lauren Flaxen (left) and Emma Owen were taking part in the event together. | Frank Reid
7. Face painting
Maya Makaveli, 6, with her painted face at Sunderland's first Garden Games | Frank Reid
8. Anyone for tennis?
Harkey Soloman looking for a tennis partner to enjoy a game of tennis. | Frank Reid