The Seniors' Fitness Park will be located in the NE corner grassy area of the Alex Dillabough Centre grounds. (Submitted photo/Town of Battleford)

By Angela Brown

Outdoor exercise space

Town’s new Seniors Fitness Park to arrive soon

Sep 23, 2021 | 12:00 PM

The Town of Battleford is getting closer to having its first Seniors Fitness Park.

The town’s parks and recreation manager, Jordan Schechtel, gave an update on the project at this week’s council meeting.

He said he contacted the supplier and the equipment is now expected to be delivered from the manufacturer on Sept. 24, after having been postponed previously.

“Once it gets shipped out, the actual install shouldn’t take too long to do,” Schechtel said.

He added the crew on the project was passing through the Battlefords area recently, so they stopped to complete the concrete border for the space to begin the work.

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“Hopefully, by mid-October we will start to see quite a bit more progress,” Schechtel said. “I hope we can still get everything done before the snow flies.”

Councillor Judy Pruden told battlefordsNOW an area outside the Alex Dillabough Centre is being prepared for the installation. The site will also be located near the town’s walking path to increase access.

“I think it’s pretty exciting,” she said. “It’s unfortunate that it was delayed several months due to problems at the factory. But we are hoping to get it all installed prior to the cold, harsh fall setting in for sure.”

The fitness space will include equipment for improving upper and lower body strength, as well as for elliptical exercises.

“It’s an excellent facility that people of all ages will be able to use, but specifically active seniors,” Pruden said.

The equipment will be set up so participants can proceed through the various stations to focus on a range of different strengthening exercises.

“It will help with balance,” Pruden added. “In the long run, it will also help with falls prevention. People can go there to strengthen their body, so hopefully it will prevent some injuries. The ultimate goal is so people can stay in their homes longer, and age in place.”

Some of the exercise stations will also be wheelchair accessible.

Pruden mentioned there is also a mental health benefit as well, since those who come to use the fitness equipment will have an opportunity to get out of their homes for a break, enjoy the fresh air and chat with other participants at the same time.

“It will be a good place to meet and get some fitness done,” she said. “I look forward to our grand opening. I hope it’s utilized well.”

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angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW