From Military Roots to Manchester’s Green Gyms: The Story of Manchester Outdoor Fitness
When you think of fitness in Manchester, the mind often jumps to gyms and treadmills. But since the early 2000s, a different kind of training has been thriving in the city’s parks—built on discipline, teamwork, and the great outdoors. This is the story of Manchester Outdoor Fitness.
Our Beginnings: British Military Fitness in Manchester
The story starts with British Military Fitness (BMF), founded nationally in 1999 as the UK’s first outdoor bootcamp provider. Led by Ex-Military instructors, BMF quickly grew in popularity across the country.
8 March 2001 — BMF launched in Manchester at Platt Fields Park.
10 March 2001 — Just two days later, BMF expanded into Heaton Park.
These early Manchester sessions set the tone: structured drills, progressive conditioning, and a big dose of camaraderie in the open air.
Expansion Years: New Parks, Bigger Community
As demand grew, new venues were added across Greater Manchester:
January 2005 — Bruntwood Park launches in Stockport.
31 October 2006 — Sale Water Park opens in Trafford by popular demand.
September 2011 — Stamford Park launches in Stalybridge, expanding into Tameside.
September 2013 — Carrs Park launches in Wilmslow, bringing outdoor training to Cheshire.
These expansions gave more people access to outdoor training and cemented BMF as a community fitness movement across Manchester and beyond.
From BMF to Be Military Fit
In 2018, BMF rebranded nationally as Be Military Fit with Bear Grylls, bringing in new training programmes and a fresh brand identity.
Local Leadership: Graham & Taz
A pivotal moment came in 2019, when Graham and Taz purchased the Manchester franchises under Be Military Fit. With local leadership, the Manchester operation gained stability and direction, laying the groundwork for the next big step.
The Birth of Manchester Outdoor Fitness
In 2022, the rebrand was complete: the launch of Manchester Outdoor Fitness (MOF) with its own website, identity, and a growing community.
The mission stayed true to its roots—Military-inspired outdoor training for all abilities—but with a stronger local focus and community-driven ethos.
Nationwide Partnerships
In 2025, Manchester Outdoor Fitness formed partnerships with many former BMF communities. This meant members could now train nationwide, from Manchester to other cities and parks across the UK, while still belonging to their Manchester home base.
Find our national partners here
What Makes Manchester Outdoor Fitness Different
Unlike a conventional gym or bootcamp, MOF sessions are held outdoors in Manchester’s parks, year-round. Every class is structured but varied, ensuring no two sessions are the same.
What sets us apart:
Ex-Military instructors — discipline, safety, motivation.
Colour-bib system — workouts tailored to all abilities.
Community spirit — accountability, encouragement, and friendships.
All-weather resilience — rain, shine, or snow.
Fun with purpose — strength, cardio, and team games mixed together.
Where We Train Today
Our outdoor bootcamps are some of Manchester’s most iconic green spaces:
Heaton Park
Platt Fields Park
Bruntwood Park
Sale Water Park
The Carrs
Stamford Park
With 120+ sessions a month across these venues, there’s a time and place for everyone.
Our Training Philosophy
We believe fitness is about more than press-ups and burpees. It’s about:
Resilience — keep going when it’s tough.
Character — build discipline, confidence, and grit.
Community — progress together.
Holistic health — strength for the body and the mind.
Looking Ahead
From the first sessions in Platt Fields back in 2001 to today’s thriving network, Manchester Outdoor Fitness has grown into one of the largest outdoor training communities in the region.
The future is about:
Expanding to new venues.
Hosting outdoor events and challenges.
Offering hybrid options like audio/online workouts.
Strengthening nationwide partnerships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manchester Outdoor Fitness?
Manchester Outdoor Fitness is a community-driven outdoor bootcamp in Manchester, led by ex-military instructors. Sessions are held in local parks and combine strength, cardio, and team training to suit all fitness levels.
Where does Manchester Outdoor Fitness train?
We run sessions in Heaton Park, Platt Fields, Bruntwood Park, Sale Water Park, Stamford Park, and The Carrs. With 120+ sessions every month, there’s always a convenient time and location.
Do I need to be fit to join?
No — our colour-bib system means every class is tailored to your level, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Everyone trains together but at the right intensity.
What happens if it rains?
We train in all weather, year-round. Our sessions are designed for the outdoors, and training in the elements helps build resilience. Just bring appropriate clothing — the community spirit keeps everyone motivated.
Is there a free trial session?
Yes — we offer a free first session so you can try Manchester Outdoor Fitness before joining. Book your spot online at www.manchesteroutdoorfitness.co.uk.
Can I train with MOF outside Manchester?
Yes — thanks to our partnerships with former British Military Fitness communities, members can now train nationwide at partner locations across the UK.
