Connecting Neighbours through Outdoor Fitness

Signs nestled along the forest trail that runs through the Stanley Park and Rosemount neighbourhoods invite neighbours to engage in exercises to promote strength and flexibility. The project was the brainchild of area residents who wanted to provide their neighbours with an economical way to exercise while connecting with nature in a beautiful forest setting. Joining together to form the Fitness in the Forest resident group, the group applied to and were awarded a LoveMyHood grant to pursue their neighbourhood dream.

The Fitness in the Forest trail is located along the Stanley Park Conservation Area trail from Forfar Crescent to Ottawa St N. The workout offers a warm-up, targeted exercises for the core, upper and lower body, as well as cool down and stretching. Trail users can access a QR code with their cell phone to see a video example of the exercises, including moderate and advanced options, so users of all ages can personalize their workout.

Lisa Lankowski, Fitness in the Forest team lead, says “We have received such wonderful, uplifting feedback and have been witnessing enthusiasm surrounding our Fitness in the Forest project. We are blown away by all the positivity and excitement and it warms our hearts to know that the community is so interested and loving this idea.”

The trail has been embraced by the surrounding neighbours, including grade 7 and 8 students from St. Daniel Catholic Elementary School, who use it for their gym class. The trail is free to be used by anyone, and is a welcome green escape within the city. Users are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, athletic shoes, and bring a water bottle.

Cities like Kitchener, are experiencing increased demand for outdoor fitness areas in neighbourhood parks due to the ease of access, low cost, and opportunity to connect with neighbours.

How could you use the LoveMyHood grant to improve access to fitness opportunities in your neighbourhood?