While there's no denying that Melaka is a relatively small state on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, there are some popular exercise spots which are always bustling with activity, especially on weekends or holidays. One such location is the Bukit Serindit Recreational Park, which is situated close to the heart of Melaka Town. Among the various activities here include : jogging, group exercise (aerobics, etc.), cycling, skating, playground.
Like many others, I personally feel that regular outdoor activity is an essential ingredient to maintain a health, balanced lifestyle. Especially important to start developing the habit in my kids from an early age. The Bukit Serindit Recreational Park is an old time favourite, as it's located within 15 minutes drive (depending on traffic conditions). The authorities have done their job here, as the park is quite well maintained. Park cleaners keep the walkways and landscape presentable, and the facilities are maintained and repaired as needed.
There are lots of trees and greenery everywhere, though not enough to provide shade around the park, so you'll want to go early in the morning or in the evening in order to avoid getting sunburn under the typical Malaysian sunshine.
Below is a satellite map I got from Google Maps, with some key features mapped out:
You can jog along the outer perimeter of the park. I've marked the path in the map above, which comes to roughly 1.5km. Of course, you can also choose to run through the many foot paths criss-crossing through the park itself....
There ample parking space at both the main entrance (North side) and also on the West side next to the hall. There's a really small parking lot next to the Hockey fields - I guess they are intended for players.
There are many exercise groups scattered through the park. They are spaced far enough so that the accompanying music from each group will not overlap and cause great confusion. Most of them are basically aerobic style work outs, though there are some slower groups (one based on Buddhist Meditation, for non-Muslims only).
Right in the middle of the park is a small lake. Not sure of the origins, whether it's natural or man-made. There are a few iguanas / monitor lizards in the park, which you can occasionally spot having a swim in the lake. So far, have not come into close encounter with one, and never heard anyone being attacked or bitten before. There are possibly fish in the lake too, as though it's strictly prohibited, you can see people fishing illegally here quite often. Hope the law enforcers can take some action.
Next to the lake is a small flat area with smooth tiles suitable for roller skates / in-line skates. Though it's a bit small and too open, if you ask me. Not a place you would come to LEARN how to skate, unless you have no qualms about falling down in full public view. Just across the lake from here is a small amphitheater. No scheduled performances or shows here, though.
There's a children's playground with the usual playhouses, swings and see-saws. Usually the kids head straight for this place, and we end up spending quite a while over here. Next to this is are bars and facilities suitable for adults to practice (pull ups, chin ups, etc.). You can see some calisthenics aficionados working out here from time to time.
Always important to know where the rest-rooms are located. Updated my map based as I missed out the one near the North car park. I believe the cleaners are regularly cleaning the rest-rooms, so it's not a lost cause if you have to answer Nature's call.
There's a Hall on the mid-Western side of the park. I recall attending an indoor basketball tournament here a few years ago. Not sure if the hall is used for this or perhaps for other indoor games like badminton. Need to take a closer look the next time I'm there.
Over at the South East corner is a small area which has some skate park facilities. Quite small, but then I guess not many people here are into skating.
Not far away is a rather a peculiar sight, with many poles suitable for hanging bird cages. They have not been in use for as long as I can remember, so I don't know if this was a popular hobby many, many, many years ago. But nonetheless, the poles are still there.
Well, that roughly covers what you can find here. As mentioned, on weekends / public holidays, the Bukit Serindit Recreational Park is usually packed (until the sun is high in the sky). It's good thing though, as this shows that the general public is quite health-conscious and actively participating in outdoor exercise. Highly recommended to bring your family and introduce to friends. I do hope that the authorities and users (that's the public like you and me) can keep the park in good condition for everyone to enjoy!
Do you already come here regularly? What do you think of the park?
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