A new era of fitness is officially underway in Richmond’s Lake Reba Park. City officials and park enthusiasts gathered Tuesday for the ribbon cutting of the outdoor fitness court.
The 30 by 30-foot square pad features seven different fitness circuits including rings, blocks, and bars. It’s one of seven such outdoor fitness facilities in Kentucky. Trying it out was Richmond resident Willie Sandifer.
“Well I try to work out, but the equipment is inviting. It’s nice and pretty and bright and it’s in a nice beautiful park,” said Sandifer.
Parks and Recreation Director of Recreation Administration Erin Moore said the outdoor fitness court probably wouldn’t have happened without $120,000 in grant money. Moore said the pad is designed for people of all abilities ranging from beginners to intermediate, to advanced. She said the aim is to encourage citizens to start somewhere.
“Maybe they can’t do this yet, but maybe they can go out and walk. So, start walking, then do a squat, then do your core. Start somewhere and every baby step is going to get them healthier, change their mindset and lead a healthy life,” said Moore.
The outdoor fitness court falls in line with the Parks Master Plan. Moore noted work is expected to start this fall on a regional sports park. It will include soccer and baseball fields, plus volleyball, pickle ball, and tennis courts as well as walking and cycling trails and disc golf. Moore added that facility should open in 2025.
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