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Cairns Families Turn to Local Parks for Child-Friendly Fitness as Programs Expand
Cairns Regional Council's Active Living classes and new equipment at the Cairns Wellness Centre align with Australian and global trends in family activity and senior strength training.
How we reported this
Child-friendly fitness sessions in Cairns have exploded in popularity over the past three years as families seek safe, active ways to stay together.
Australian fitness trends for 2025-26 prioritise fitness programs for older adults, exercise for mental health, Pilates, and mobility/recovery training, reflecting a holistic approach. Global 2026 trends highlight strength training as the leading modality at 46 percent, alongside wearable technology as the top trend and a shift toward strength for longevity over physique-only goals.
Active Living Program at Named Local Sites
Cairns Regional Council's free Active Living program offers qualified trainer-led fitness and wellbeing classes at locations like the Esplanade, Fogarty Park, and Botanic Gardens, recently expanding to four suburban parks. These venues provide practical options for families and residents seeking group sessions in established public spaces.
New Equipment Increases Senior Sessions
The Cairns Wellness Centre, serving seniors, secured a new grant to purchase specialized HUR gym equipment, enabling an increase of 10,400 individual health and wellness sessions annually. This addition supports the priority on fitness programs for older adults within the broader 2025-26 trends.
Residents can access the free Active Living classes through the council listings at the Esplanade, Fogarty Park, Botanic Gardens and the four additional suburban parks. The Cairns Wellness Centre provides further options for seniors using the new equipment to pursue strength training aligned with longevity goals.