Head to the great outdoors for an effective workout using the FitCourt
New FitCourt to open during Aug. 28 UFest
It’s well established that regular exercise can benefit your body and mind. It can improve your heart health, strengthen bones and muscles and enhance memory, mood and brain function. But did you know that you can boost the physical and psychological benefits of exercise further by taking your workout outside? Even looking at nature can lower stress hormones and improve your emotional state. Green exercise, or physical activity that takes place in natural environments, is a great way to experience the many health benefits of being in great outdoors.
“Simply breathing in some fresh air and getting a little Vitamin D from the sun can leave you feeling energized and rejuvenated,” said Jenna Moore, assistant director of fitness and wellness in Campus Recreation. “Incorporating exercise into your time outdoors is a great way to challenge your body, add variation to your routine and renew your motivation.”
This fall, Binghamton students, faculty and staff will be able to engage in fresh-air fitness at no additional cost when Campus Recreation unveils its newest recreation area — an outdoor fitness area called the FitCourt — during the annual University Fest (UFest).
The FitCourt features seven training zones, where users can perform thousands of bodyweight exercises for a functional, full-body workout. Members of the Binghamton campus community will be able to exercise outdoors at their convenience. The FitCourt, adjacent to the Recreation Center at the East Gym, will also be lit for evening use.
“The FitCourt will bring additional outdoor fitness opportunities for adults of all ages and abilities,” said Clyde Robinson, director of the department of Campus Recreational Services. “Research shows that students who are engaged and participate in regular physical activity demonstrate increased academic achievement. This convenient, outdoor fitness option will make it easier for everyone to live healthy, active lifestyles.”
The FitCourt is a featured part of a 2021 initiative launched by National Fitness Campaign (NFC), a nationwide consulting organization that partners with cities and schools to plan, build and fund healthy infrastructure. There are currently 100 active fitness court locations across the country, and the NFC will reach a total of 250 cities and schools by the end of 2021.
App can help users maximize their workouts
NFC developed the trademarked seven-station fitness court system in 2012, which pairs with the free coach-in-your-pocket style Fitness Court App.
“Anyone can download the Fitness Court App to learn more about the stations and be guided through a full-body workout,” Moore said. The Fitness Court App — Fitness Court — is available for iOS and Android.
The grand opening of the FitCourt will take place during UFest, from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 28. Students, faculty, staff and the general public are invited to attend. There will be fun giveaways and opportunities to try the new equipment with assistance from Campus Recreation’s team of certified personal trainers.