(July 31, 2024) — Jackson College, in collaboration with Priority Health and the National Fitness Campaign, is set to unveil a new outdoor Priority Health Fitness Court® Studio at its Central Campus on August 12, 2024, at 5 p.m. This initiative, driven by a statewide partnership between Priority Health and the National Fitness Campaign, aims to provide free access to high-quality workouts, ensuring equitable exercise opportunities for the Jackson community.
“We at Priority Health believe that everyone deserves a healthy life, which is why we are investing in community projects to eliminate barriers to free and accessible fitness,” said Praveen Thadani, president of Priority Health. “Our partnership with Jackson College and the National Fitness Campaign in launching this Fitness Court Studio is a significant step towards enhancing wellness across the state.”
In 2023, the Priority Health Fitness Court network saw 7,320 active users, collectively burning an estimated 41.2 million calories and losing 13,071 pounds. This new facility at Jackson College is an open-air wellness center that allows users to engage in comprehensive workouts using their body weight. The studio features two distinct workout areas separated by a mural wall, artistically designed to reflect the local environment and inspire users.
The Fitness Court Studio offers a seven-minute full-body workout area on one side and a versatile space for outdoor classes like yoga, Zumba, and Pilates on the other. It caters to adults of all ages and fitness levels and can be utilized in group settings or solo. Local volunteer ambassadors will lead group classes, while new and solo users can access the free Fitness Court App, a digital coaching platform available on iOS and Android, to enhance their workout experience.
“National Fitness Campaign is thrilled to welcome Jackson College as a key participant in our Michigan campaign, promoting health and wellness within the campus community,” said Mitch Menaged, founder of the National Fitness Campaign. “The introduction of the Fitness Court Studio, along with group fitness and digital wellness programming, underscores a strong commitment to community health and well-being.”
Jackson College’s new Fitness Court marks the 22nd installation by Priority Health, with plans to establish at least 30 more by the end of 2027. The mission behind this partnership is to increase access to free, high-quality exercise opportunities for everyone, including those with disabilities. The National Fitness Campaign’s seven-station system, launched in 2012, has inspired the transformation of public spaces into community fitness hubs, celebrating its 500th healthy community milestone across Michigan, including cities like Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Traverse City.
“Jackson College is excited to partner with the National Fitness Campaign to bring this outdoor Priority Health Fitness Court Studio to our campus,” said Dr. Daniel J. Phelan, President of Jackson College. “This initiative aligns with our commitment to holistic well-being, providing our students, staff, and community with healthy and enjoyable fitness options. We encourage everyone to come out, experience the new fitness court, and find new ways to integrate fitness into their daily lives.”
