By Karen Haave

A project two years in the making is about to come to fruition, and Crete Park District officials couldn’t be happier. A new Fitness Court will open next month, with a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony at Swiss Valley Park. The event takes place at 4:30 p.m. on August 15.

“We are so excited for this event, because we have been working really hard to bring this fitness court to our community,” said Jamie Healy, administrative assistant for Crete Park District. “This fitness court was made possible with a grant from the National Fitness Campaign and Blue Cross Blue Shield and is designed as an open-air fitness circuit for all ages and abilities.  
“It is currently being put in at Swiss Valley Park – the park with the tennis courts on Haweswood Drive and Steger Road and is just the first phase of our exciting plans for this park. The Fitness Court will feature state-of-the-art equipment designed to offer a comprehensive full-body workout experience,” she continued.
“With seven distinct movements, including core exercises, squats, pushes, lunges, pulls, agility drills, and bends, the court will cater to all fitness levels. Among the equipment available are Plyo Boxes, Bend Box stations, rings and pull-up bars, push-up bars, and agility squares and dots on the flooring, ensuring a varied and effective workout session. 
“The Crete Park District considers the Fitness Court a significant addition to our park system,” Healy added, “aimed at encouraging our community to reconnect with nature through physical exercise. Today, there’s a noticeable trend towards reduced physical activity and increased lethargy. The Fitness Court offers an inclusive opportunity for our community to engage in physical fitness, promoting a better quality of life without any barriers.
“The Fitness Court marks a significant milestone in the revitalization of Swiss Valley Park. During the grand opening event, we will showcase drawings outlining proposed phases of park improvements. We encourage the community to attend, view these plans, and share their thoughts. Your input will be invaluable as we prepare for future grant submissions and aim to enhance our park for everyone’s enjoyment.”
The grand opening is open to the public.