A ribbon cutting event will be held to celebrate the grand opening of Wisconsin’s first outdoor fitness court. In partnership with the National Fitness Campaign and SSM Health, the City of Janesville will be unveiling this one-of-a-kind outdoor gym to the public on June 8 at the southeast corner of River and Court Streets near the Janesville Transit Transfer Center.
The National Fitness Campaign (NFC) approached the City in 2017 about constructing what would become Wisconsin’s first outdoor gym of its kind. The fitness court, a 38 by 38 foot outdoor facility, will be equipped with thirty pieces of workout equipment at different stations. Up to thirty people can work out at the same time—all for no cost.

The fitness court was made possible by a very generous donation of $40,000 from SSM Health and an additional $10,000 donation from NFC. The facility will help to improve public health and allow more people to have access to workout equipment. It is centrally located, next door to the Janesville Transit Transfer Center, open 24/7, and free for all.

City of Janesville Recreation Director Shelley Slapak says, “The outdoor fitness court is an excellent amenity to not only the City, but specifically to the downtown. The addition of the fitness court satisfies several City strategic goals, including a focus on downtown, partnerships, and safe and healthy community. The fitness court produced a partnership with SSM Health and NFC for the funding, it encourages diversity of activity downtown, and it encourages an active lifestyle for our community.”

The grand opening event and ribbon cutting will take place on June 8 from 1-5 p.m. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1:30 p.m., equipment demonstrations, health and wellness booths, and refreshments. All are invited to attend the event which is being held in conjunction with Downtown Janesville, Inc.’s “608 Day” celebration. For more information, please contact Recreation Director Shelley Slapak at (608) 755-3030.

Click here to view the Facebook Event.