Nestled in the heart of New Farm, Merthyr Park offers a tranquil escape within the bustling city. Lush greenery and sprawling lawns provide a haven for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors.

But for those seeking a more active experience, Merthyr Park boasts a hidden gem – an outdoor gym! This free-to-use facility features a calisthenics circuit, perfect for strength training enthusiasts. 

At this outdoor gym, staying active can literally be a walk in the park! Check out our guide to Merthyr Park and find your next fave scenic workout spot!

What’s in Merthyr Park? 

Merthyr Park’s Outdoor Gym in New Farm is a free, open-air facility that offers a convenient way to get your sweat on while taking in the views of the Brisbane River.

Instead of traditional gym equipment, Merthyr Park utilizes a calisthenics circuit. This means you’ll find bodyweight exercise stations designed for strength training such as  pull-up bars, dip bars, leg raises, and more. 

Perfect for a full-body workout, the calisthenics circuit allows you to adjust the difficulty based on your fitness level.

The park’s location adds another perk. Breathe in the fresh air while overlooking the river, making your workout a scenic experience. 

Merthyr Park also features a playground nearby, making it a great option for a family outing where everyone gets active. Notably, the playground is shaped like a ship, which kids would definitely enjoy. 

You don’t need a gym membership, just head to Merthyr Park! With its convenient location, free equipment, and beautiful surroundings, it’s the perfect spot for an invigorating workout while soaking in the Brisbane sunshine.

A Brief History 

Merthyr was once a residential suburb and is now part of New Farm, just 1.5 kilometers east of central Brisbane. 

Premier Samuel Griffith built his residence here in 1880, naming it after his Welsh birthplace. Today, Merthyr Road, Merthyr Park, and Griffith Street pay homage to his legacy.

Unlike many riverside areas, Merthyr has transitioned seamlessly from an industrial area to an urban haven. The Merthyr Park shoreline escaped the brunt of the 1893 flood, allowing for park development. 

Trams once ran through Merthyr, connecting it to Brunswick Street and New Farm. A ferry even operated across the river to Kangaroo Point. 

Today, Merthyr boasts some of Brisbane’s most coveted addresses – think Oxlade Drive with its stunning river and park views! 

Location and accessibility

Situated in the heart of New Farm, Merthyr Park is a picturesque green space that curves by the banks of the Brisbane River. 

The park itself is easily accessible, offering multiple entry points. The most convenient access to the outdoor gym is via Oxlade Drive, with ample on-street parking in the vicinity and several bus stops close by. 

Additionally, the New Farm Park ferry terminal is a short walk away, making the gym readily accessible for those taking the CityCat ferry. 

For those who prefer a more active commute, the park is also well-connected to Brisbane’s extensive cycling network. You can find dedicated bike lanes running alongside Oxlade Drive.

Merthyr Park Outdoor Gym Amenities

Merthyr Park’s Outdoor Gym isn’t your standard gym with rows of weight machines. Instead, it focuses on calisthenics equipment, a form of exercise that utilizes your bodyweight for resistance. 

This approach offers several advantages:

• Accessibility – Calisthenics equipment is generally simple and requires minimal maintenance, making it a cost-effective solution for public outdoor gyms.

• Versatility – These stations can be used for a wide range of exercises, catering to various fitness levels and goals.

• Bodyweight Training – Focusing on bodyweight exercises promotes functional movement patterns and core strength development.

Here are some of the calisthenics equipment available at Merthyr Park:

• Pull-up bars – These bars come in varying heights, allowing users of all abilities to perform pull-ups, chin-ups, and rows.

• Parallel bars – These parallel bars enable dips, a great exercise for building upper body strength, particularly targeting the triceps and chest.

• Monkey bars – Build upper body strength and improve your grip as you swing from bar to bar. 

• Incline benches – These benches allow you to target your upper chest muscles more effectively than a flat bench press. By adjusting the incline angle, you can focus on different areas of your upper pecs.

• Step-up platforms – These platforms provide a platform for step-ups, lunges, and other exercises that improve leg strength and coordination.

Merthyr Park Outdoor Gym Workout Tips

Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or a fitness newbie, Merthyr Park’s Outdoor Gym offers a fantastic environment to achieve your fitness goals. Here are some tips to optimize your workout experience:

• Warm-up – Never underestimate the importance of a proper warm-up before any exercise routine. Light cardio like jogging in place or jumping jacks, followed by dynamic stretches, will prepare your body for the workout ahead.

• Start Simple – If you’re new to calisthenics, begin with exercises that suit your current fitness level. Focus on proper form over the number of repetitions. As you gain strength, you can progress to more challenging exercises.

• Circuit Training – Design a circuit that incorporates various stations to target different muscle groups. This will keep your workout dynamic and prevent boredom.

• Rest and Recovery – Don’t neglect rest periods between sets and exercises. Allowing your muscles adequate time to recover ensures you maintain proper form and maximize your workout’s effectiveness. 

• Listen to Your Body – Pay attention to your body’s signals. If you experience any pain, stop the exercise and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.

• Hydration – Especially in Brisbane’s warm climate, staying hydrated is crucial. Bring a reusable water bottle and take regular sips throughout your workout.

• SPF – Don’t forget your sunscreen! Since you’ll be spending some time outdoors, remember to apply sunscreen on your face and body to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. 

What’s Nearby? 

Merthyr Park is a great destination because it’s located in the vibrant suburb of New Farm. So if you still have the energy after your outdoor workout, you’ll love that there’s so much to explore nearby! 

Here are some interesting places you can check out that’s within walking distance from Merthyr Park:

• New Farm Bowls Club – Mingle with the locals at this historic club, offering a classic game of bowls, delicious meals with stunning river views, and a vibrant social scene.

• Double Shot New Farm – Fuel your post-workout energy with a delicious coffee and a light bite at this trendy cafe.

• New Farm Park – Brisbane’s oldest and grandest park, perfect for picnics, walks, or just soaking up the sunshine by the river.

• Brisbane Powerhouse – Immerse yourself in art, theater, music, and comedy at this renowned performing arts venue housed in a stunning heritage building.

• Powerhouse Farmers Markets – Held every Saturday morning at the Brisbane Powerhouse grounds, these markets offer a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisan goods, and handmade crafts.

• Merthyr Village Shopping Center – This convenient shopping complex caters to your daily needs with a supermarket and various specialty shops.
• Howard Smith Wharves – A short stroll away from New Farm, this revitalized waterfront precinct boasts an array of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options with stunning river views.