This issue we spoke with Ric Stolly, the deputy Public Works director at the City of Lima’s Division of Parks and Recreation about the new outdoor fitness court.
Describe all the features of the new outdoor Lima Fitness Court.
RS: The Lima Fitness Court is a community outdoor gym with all abilities in mind. Whether you’re 14 or 74, the workouts are adaptable for all fitness levels, allowing participants to move at their own pace. Users can come at their convenience, download the free fitness court app and get access to a coach-in-your-pocket for a digitally supported wellness experience.
In 2024, the city also recruited fitness ambassadors to lead free community programming, so everyone can build connections with people who will encourage them through their fitness journey.
Why did the parks and rec department believe this was needed for the community?
RS: Healthy people make a healthy community, which is why we continue to explore new ways to develop and maintain safe, accessible spaces for fitness and recreation. Lima, Ohio, is blessed with nearly 400 acres of parks and public land that the city maintains. This includes a beautiful bikeway trailing along the Ottawa River. Despite all these wonderful assets, many in our community continue to struggle with maintaining healthy lifestyles.
As we explored solutions to this challenge, we wanted to find ways to leverage the strengths we have in place, while continuing to fill the gaps. This led us to our partnership with the National Fitness Campaign to install a community, outdoor gym that’s built with all abilities in mind. The new Lima Fitness Court is open to the public and accessible to everyone. It leverages some of the assets we already have in place, like the Ottawa River Bikeway and our downtown community spaces.
What’s the reaction been like from the community?
RS: Within 48 hours of posting photos of the installation underway, the news spread like wildfire throughout the community. To say Lima was excited would be an understatement. We had tremendous support at the ribbon cutting event as well, with representatives from the Lima Police and Fire Departments participating in a live fitness court challenge that showcased the use of the equipment. Registration for city-sponsored classes filled within a week, with great feedback from the participants at the conclusion of classes.
What advice/tips do you have for creating effective outdoor workout spaces?
RS: The fitness court fits perfectly into our goal to build a city that works for all people. Our community members enjoy coming to the court at their convenience, whether they want to use the app or attend city-led programming. The court’s design allows them to move at their own pace. The court is adaptable to all fitness levels and ages.
