Exciting New Fitness Opportunity in Benton Harbor
The Benton Harbor community has officially unveiled its new Fitness Court, a project years in the making. Located at 110 Water Street, right across from the Dwight P. Mitchell City Center Park, this outdoor fitness space is designed to enhance personal wellness and promote an active lifestyle.
A Collaborative Effort
The journey to bring the Fitness Court to life took about four years and was made possible through the combined efforts of various organizations. The city secured $50,000 in grants from the National Fitness Campaign, Whirlpool, and Corewell Health to fund this initiative. Shannon Wilson from Priority Health highlighted the importance of community in this endeavor: “Seeing the smiles on our faces is because we made it happen here in Benton Harbor.”
What to Expect at the Fitness Court
This innovative outdoor gym allows users to engage in bodyweight training. Athletes from Benton Harbor High School showcased the equipment during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, demonstrating how the Fitness Court can be an engaging option for everyone from beginners to seasoned fitness enthusiasts.
Equipment Overview
The Fitness Court features:
- Concrete blocks for stepping and parkour-style training
- Hanging rings for pull-ups
- Metal bars for balance and lifting exercises
These installations provide versatile workout options suitable for varied fitness levels. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve balance, or enhance endurance, there’s something for everyone.
Emphasizing Community and Health
Mayor Marcus Muhammad and other speakers emphasized that this project represents a true collaboration among community partners, including Corewell, Whirlpool, and Harbor Shores. Muhammad stated, “You can see the response; we have everyone out here today. That reflects the cooperation that has made us successful.”
An Ideal Launch for a New Social District
Benton Harbor’s Fitness Court opens just as the city rolls out its new social district, which promotes local eateries and a vibrant community atmosphere. As Cornerstone Alliance’s Andrew Hahn quipped, what better way to burn off calories than with a quick workout after enjoying a meal at a nearby restaurant?
Key Takeaways for Fitness Enthusiasts
- Accessibility: The Fitness Court provides free access to high-quality workout equipment in a community setting, making it ideal for everyone.
- Engagement: Try team workouts or community classes to make fitness a social experience.
- Versatile Training: The equipment caters to various fitness routines, perfect for every level from beginner to expert.
Make it Part of Your Routine
The Fitness Court is not just a gym; it’s an opportunity to foster community, health, and well-being. Start incorporating it into your fitness routine by:
- Setting Goals: Define what you want to achieve, whether it’s strength training, balance improvement, or simply getting more active.
- Finding a Workout Buddy: Engage friends or family to join you for accountability and fun.
- Experimenting with Routines: Mix in different exercises to keep your workouts fresh and exciting.
In a world where staying active has never been more crucial, the Benton Harbor Fitness Court serves as a vibrant beacon for health and wellness. Whether you’re a busy professional or a fitness enthusiast, this new space is here to inspire and motivate you on your journey to better health.

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