This is how Nakuru residents are transforming footpaths into open-air gyms

When the newly paved Cabro footpath stretching between the Sarova Hotel and the Governor’s Office in Milimani was completed, many residents thought of it merely as an infrastructural upgrade. However, for Nakuru’s growing community of fitness enthusiasts, it has become something more: a free, safe and versatile open-air gym.

According to fitness trainer Emmanuel Wanyonyi, popularly known as Manucho, the shift from uneven grass patches to a neat cabro path has transformed how people train in the area. He notes that what sets this spot apart is its incline.

“Before, the ground was rough and uneven. Doing exercises like planks, sit-ups, or push-ups was almost impossible. Now, the cabro surface is clean, firm, and reliable,” he tells Mtaa Wangu.

“It’s ideal not only for bodyweight training, but also for low-impact activities such as walking, running and cycling. The incline makes it excellent for endurance work, too.”

For Manucho, however, the appeal of the footpath goes beyond fitness, it’s about the environment. He says that exercising outdoors provides what most gyms can’t: fresh air, sunlight, and a sense of freedom.

“Every morning, I notice more people showing up. Training outdoors builds community. You meet others, exchange encouragement and motivate each other. It’s not just about exercise; it’s about belonging,” he explains.

Chris Njuguna, another regular jogger in the area, remembers the frustrations of the past.

"When this path was just grass, we had to run on the main road, constantly dodging cars. A jog would be interrupted by traffic, forcing us to step aside. It wasn’t safe, and it disrupted our training rhythm. This upgrade has been a game changer," he says.

Njuguna believes that more of these concrete footpaths across Nakuru could spark a citywide fitness culture. He points out that, while gym memberships remain out of reach for many, outdoor training requires nothing but dedication.

"Not everyone can afford gym membership. But walking or jogging outdoors with others is free. You can still reach your fitness goals without spending anything,” he says.

Many residents currently flock to the stretch between Menengai, Naka, and Free Area to run. The new Milimani path now offers an alternative for those who prefer shorter loops closer to town.

Manucho, who lives in Maili Sita, says that the Milimani path has also changed the way he trains his clients.

"I wake up at 5am, and by 6:30am, I'm already here with my trainees. We do about an hour of intensive training before everyone heads to work. I expect the numbers to grow because the environment feels safe, structured and motivating,” he says.

What started as a simple cabro pavement is shaping up to be more than just a road, it's becoming a fitness hub. Every stretch, sprint and push-up along the new footpath tells the story of a city embracing a healthier, more active lifestyle.

"This is just the beginning," says Manucho with conviction. "If we can keep improving public spaces like this, Nakuru could become the fitness capital of Kenya."