“파도 소리 들으며 벤치프레스를”…‘오션뷰 야외 헬스장’이 뜬다

A unique fitness spot called "Ocean View Outdoor Health Club" has emerged by the beach in Naksan beach, Yangyang County of Gangwon Province. Inaugurated last August, the 750-square-meter facility offers a diverse array of workout equipment, including a bench press, incline bench, dumbbells, and suspension trainers, all free for public use.

The outdoor gym is set against the backdrop of ocean waves, creating a visually striking scene as visitors exercise while listening to the sound of the sea. Yangyang County, known for its famous iron beach, supports the project through financial contributions and administrative assistance. The facility aims to provide a distinctive space that combines fitness and tourism, attracting the MZ generation and fitness enthusiasts.

Similar "muscle beaches" have also popped up in other locations, such as Malibu Beach in California, where Arnold Schwarzenegger used to train, and Gangneung's Gangmun Beach. In Uljin District of Ulsan, a newly opened "Ocean Bangbang Beach" has become a popular "gym spot" for people of all ages, thanks to its bench press and various other workout equipment.

However, the success of these fitness spots depends on proper management, as demonstrated by the case of the Strong Beach in Gyeongju, which closed after facing criticism over safety concerns and high maintenance costs.