The Scottish government is to invest more than £300,000 setting up Green Gyms across the country with the aim of encouraging people to "work out" in the open air, while at the same time improving their surroundings.

Organised by the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, the Green Gyms will give people the chance to ditch pumping iron in favour of tree planting, repairing footpaths or growing food on allotments.

People of all ages are to be offered training in digging holes and planting to improve their local environment and their fitness. They can also be given tips on how to grow food in their own gardens.

Organisers claim that working out in the fresh air reduces peoples stress levels and risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as improving muscular strength and helping older people to lead more independent lives.

"It only takes 30 minutes a day of physical activity, at least five days a week, to gain enormous health benefits and help prevent many serious diseases such as heart disease, cancer and stroke," said Shona Robison, minister for public health and sport.

"Green Gyms are free for everyone to use, and for people who wont set foot in a regular gym, they offer a way to improve your fitness while meeting new people, learning something new and benefiting your local area."