With increasing urbanization of our communities, municipalities are continuously seeking new ways to provide outdoor spaces and activities to residents. Outdoor exercise is an option that for many seems ideal. Outdoor Fitness Parks are capable of serving a diverse range of users, contributing to the overall health of the community, providing such benefits as:
- Providing a free social outlet for exercise, a much needed resource in underserved communities
- Combatting obesity through well-rounded workout opportunities that can be enjoyed by people of all abilities and fitness levels throughout the community
- Increasing interest in related community services, such as nutrition education and health screenings
- Outdoor Fitness Parks located within sight lines of a playground promote active behavior in adult family members, increasing the time spent at the playground, which can help develop a lifelong fitness mindset in children
- Promoting a sense of pride within neighborhoods where Outdoor Fitness Parks are located
- Fitness Park owners may qualify for increased grant funding related to obesity prevention/reduction