Two of Port Coquitlam's most prominent parks are now linked by pods, with the goal being an increased focus on fitness.

The city recently unveiled a series of trailside workout "pods" along the Traboulay PoCo Trail, linking Gates and Lions parks.

The nine new pieces of exercise equipment are divided among three pods, and each contains equipment similar to the standard fare found in most commercial gyms: a sit-up bench, chest press, rowing machine and a pull-up station, among others.

The recent addition follows the first installation of exercise pods in Gates Park in 2009.

"It adds an element of variety to people's fitness programs," said Nathan Taylor, PoCo's active living and sport coordinator.

"They really seem to like the concept of being able to walk between different pods and having the ability to casually complete their workouts."

Though open to residents of all ages, the city is targeting seniors in particular with the new workout equipment and is in the process of implementing a six-week course for that age group for sometime in mid to late September.

Before that program kicks off, the city will post signs around the workout equipment to advise residents of how to properly use it, while also providing information around specific exercises and routines.

"The workouts will be scaled from a beginner to a more advanced level, so we'll provide some direction in terms of how people can get a workout based on their current fitness level," Taylor said.

For more information on the pods or upcoming classes, see www.pocomotion.ca.

jkurucz@thenownews.com