Message from our Founder
Our Mission and Why it Matters
Chapter 1: 2024 Campaign Status & Impact
Health Impact
By the Numbers
Leaders Across America
Chapter 2: Featured Stories
The Power of Art and Fitness
Texas Wellness Innovation Zone
Muscle Milk Partnership
Award Winning Communities
First Tribe Partner
Ambassador Spotlight
Changing Lives - Testimonials
Chapter 3: Looking Ahead
2024 was another great year for National Fitness Campaign, as we partner with America’s largest healthcare organizations continue to build our reach and bring well-living to cities everywhere.
We sincerely thank our sponsors for their confidence in us, and for their powerful support of our mission to increase outdoor movement across America. Our team is now building Healthy Infrastructure® master plans for municipalities in more than 75% percent of the largest states in the country.
And speaking of our team, NFC is now approaching fifty rock star members, all landscape architects and urban planners, marketing, graphics, and social media leaders, and partnership development consultants, supported by data driven operations managers. We all love what we do, and get to do what we love, thanks to our sponsors, so please join me in a salute to our incredible NFC Team!
The big news this year, comes from Texas, with the support of our wonderful state sponsor Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, part of the HCSC family of health plans.
We are excited to announce a three-year Wellness Innovation Zones collaboration for the Rio Grand Valley and the Dallas Fort Worth regions, with the UTHealth School Public Health, to develop, measure, and scale an evolving menu of programs and events to build usage and impact on our Fitness Court® Wellness Hubs. We will learn from, and build on, an incredible base of community wellness learnings, that have been developed under the expert guidance of one of the leaders in the community wellness field, Dr. Belinda Reininger, and her incredible team at UTHealth.
Over the next three years, we will expand our Fitness Court® network in the RGV/DFW regions, from forty sites to 150 sites, and add our first “Regional Wellness Director” to dig deeply into community engagement trials, striving to deliver greater impact for every city and school partner in our Campaign. We will improve our Ambassador Training and Engagement, build upon successful programming and events, and strive to engage more people in our NFC communities, in Texas and across the nation.
We are also excited to announce our sponsorship of The UT Weight Loss Challenge, engaging thousands of people, and leading us into more ways of getting people involved with our programs and keeping Fitness Court® Wellness Hubs fresh and exciting!
Every day is a new day in America, and we want you to see the value we see in socially connected, active, outdoor living, to unlock your best self, by going outside to find a Fitness Court® Wellness Hub near you, where you will get energized.
You will feel great, after just one seven minute circuit, or maybe you’d prefer to make new friends at an outdoor Yoga or Zumba class – we’ll be running thousands of them, free next year, on more than 700 Fitness Courts®. So download the Fitness Court App and find a Fitness Court® near you!
And now, it gives me great pleasure to share some of this year’s highlights with you here in our 2024 National Fitness Campaign Impact Report. None of our work would be possible without the support of our incredible sponsors, mayors, college presidents and school district leaders. Behind every champion of our program is a team of proud civic and education leaders of every kind doing the work to get Fitness Courts® designed, planned, funded, built and activated.
Thank you all!
Happy Healthy New Year
Mitch Menaged Founder, NFC
View our Campaign Story Video from Founder Mitch
New data from the CDC reveals a concerning rise in obesity rates across the United States. As of 2024, every state and territory now has an obesity rate exceeding 20%. Alarmingly, 22 states report that more than 35% of their populations have obesity — a stark increase from a decade ago when no state reached this threshold. The problem with physical inactivity is rooted in our disconnection from the outdoors, despite the clear benefits of spending time in nature.
Research shows that spending as little as 10 minutes outside can improve mental health, and 120 minutes per week is linked to higher well-being. Exercising outdoors offers a natural advantage, allowing for longer workouts that deliver greater cognitive benefits than indoor sessions. There is growing momentum to leverage the built environment to combat this public health crisis. Expanding parks, adding miles of trails, and creating more walkable communities are key strategies to reduce sedentary lifestyles. National Fitness Campaign is at the forefront of this effort, designing Fitness Courts® and Fitness Court ® Studios as wellness hubs in parks and along trails to provide easy access to exercise opportunities and help foster a culture of wellness in communities and schools across the country.
America’s obesity rates increased from 15% of the population in the 1970s to over 40% today.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024
2024 Campaign Status
To welcome 1,000 Healthy Communities by 2026
National Fitness Campaign has state and regional sponsors all across America building healthy communities. These organizations are key leaders in recognizing the importance of making our communities and schools places that prioritize physical and mental wellness. With backing from the National Fitness Campaign State Sponsor Network, and growing support from mayors, civic leaders, school administrators, and state and federal officials, the Campaign is on track to fund over 1,000 Healthy Communities by 2026, marking a significant milestone.
On average, one in two adults do not get enough physical activity in their day-to-day lives, leading to chronic, yet preventable disease. At National Fitness Campaign, we’re on a mission to change health outcomes by working with communities to upgrade master plans with Healthy Infrastructure® using Fitness Courts® as wellness hubs and anchors in active parks and visible pedestrian trails. Proprietary urban design methodology and data metrics ensure that Fitness Courts® will bring people outdoors and ignite walking, jogging, cycling and strength training activity across communities and campuses.
Our team of experts provides support in gaining community consensus, gathering funding, site selection, masterplanning, installation, press and media, ambassador training, a mobile app, and much more. Our Campaign delivers a robust and ever-building toolkit of check-ins, challenges and promotions for building healthy communities, so that Fitness Courts® remain fresh, fun, exciting and accessible to all as they build in neighborhoods across America.
Funded public/private investment in Healthy Infrastructure® have a Fitness Court® within 10 minutes of their home 627 $157m 6m+ people
Campaign Highlights
Communities in the Campaign
1,937
627 Featured Growing
6+ Fitness Court® Ambassadors Trained
Brownsville, Planned Fitness
Featured Officials in the Campaign
New Jersey
District 9 Assemblyman
Brian E. Rumpf
Illinois State Senator Patrick Joyce
Illinois State Representative Anthony DeLuca
Mayor of Mount Vernon
Shawyn Patterson-Howard
Cheyenne and Arapaho
Tribes Governor EL Reno, OK
Reggie Wassana
President and Chancellor of ENMU, NM
Dr. James Johnston
Growing the Campus Network
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
Marcus Jackson Executive Director of Campus Recreation
Stanford University
Florida State University
University of Texas at Dallas
University of Minnesota
University of California, Davis
South Plains College
Santa Rosa Junior College
University of Colorado Boulder
Building America’s First Outdoor Kinetic Art Gallery
Public art uplifts the built environment and transforms public spaces. Every Fitness Court® is a one-of-a-kind work of art that promotes national and local artists with inspiring creative and cultural elements unique to each community. Our public art campaign integrated with our powerful seven minute outdoor workout system provides an opportunity for communities to reimagine public spaces through art and promote healthy living with a flair! The benefits of exercising while enjoying beautiful artwork are endless.
National Fitness Campaign (NFC), in partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX), is proud to announce a groundbreaking three-year collaboration with The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health. This partnership aims to advance community wellness through the creation of Wellness Innovation Zones across Texas, advancing NFC’s mission to make fitness free and accessible nationwide through the funding and development of free-to-the-public outdoor Fitness Court ® wellness hubs.
UTHealth Houston School of Public Health has been a leader in community health through its transformative programs developed under the direction of Dr. Belinda Reininger and her team from decades of experience addressing public health challenges in Texas. Together, NFC and UTHealth will work to test and refine best practices in community wellness programs, providing new tools and insights to hundreds of site partners and impacting the health of hundreds of thousands of people.
Expanding fitness access across Texas the Wellness Innovation Zones program will bring over 150 outdoor Fitness Court ® wellness hubs to communities in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) and Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) regions. These hubs are designed to:
• Encourage outdoor, full-body fitness activities.
• Foster connections and social resilience.
• Promote cardiovascular and strength training in open, accessible spaces.
NFC is zeroing in on key opportunities and impact areas for this program. We’re leading the charge in outdoor wellness center growth and innovation while measuring the health impact on communities, ultimately fueling the expansion of accessible fitness.
Before the excitement of March Madness officially kicks off in the college basketball world, the City of Atlanta celebrated some excitement of their own with the help of seven-time WNBA All-Star Candace Parker. Parker helped usher in a new era of free, accessible outdoor fitness after the 10-day nationwide vote last June named the City of Atlanta the winner of a brand new state-of-the-art outdoor Fitness Court® Studio.
The official ribbon-cutting ceremony kicked-off on Wednesday, March 13 with Muscle Milk’s Senior Marketing Manager Olivia Mitchell, welcoming the crowd of 50 to D.H. Stanton Park. Olivia emceed the celebration and shared the vision behind the company’s cause-based initiative, The Lifting Project, which aims to break down barriers for athletes and everyday exercisers to own their strength regardless of circumstances, in and out of the gym. District 1 Atlanta City Councilmember Jason Winston then presented Parker with an official proclamation from the City
of Atlanta, the highest honor on behalf of the City Council, declaring March 13, 2024 as “Candace Parker Day” recognizing her as a role model who exemplifies a commitment to wellness and accessibility and a dedication to community service in celebration of Women’s History Month.
“I’m proud to be working with Muscle Milk and their cause-based initiative, The Lifting Project, to help make inner and outer strength more accessible for all bodies,” said Candace Parker. “The Fitness Court® Studio is 100 percent free for anyone to use, 24/7. Having a safe, affordable space to play basketball made me who I am today and I’m so excited to partner with Muscle Milk to make the same kind of space available to this community. As someone who regularly comes to Atlanta for my work as an NBA analyst, I’m honored to be able to give back to this community.”
After the ribbon cutting ceremony, BlazeSports led a yoga class with more than 20 participants on the Fitness Court® Studio classroom.
Check out the full story here
”The Fitness Court® Studio is 100 percent free for anyone to use, 24/7. Having a safe, affordable space to play basketball made me who I am today and I’m so excited to partner with Muscle Milk to make the same kind of space available to this community.
”Candace Parker
The Virginia Association of Counties awards the County of Pulaski by recognizing their Fitness Court® as an outstanding community resource that has significantly addressed local health and wellness needs. The Pulaski County Fitness Court® is an exemplary community resource that accomodates all ages and eliminates barriers to excercise, providing a much needed fitness solution for the community while fostering community engagement. Classes, workshops and events educate community members, encouraging them to lead heathier lives and equip them with the tools to do so. As a social hub, the Fitness Court® fosters connections throughout the community and revitalizes the local economy by increasing foot traffic in the area. The Pulaski County Fitness Court® has successfully addressed public health challenges, improved Individual health outcomes, strengthened community ties and enhanced residents quality of life.
The completion of this project celebrates the first Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK) Fitness Court® in the state, symbolizing a strong commitment to improving the health and wellness of Oklahomans. The City of El Reno, located 25 miles west of Oklahoma City, is a historic city blending small-town charm with modern amenities. Known for its rich Route 66 heritage and landmarks, El Reno is an ideal location for the Fitness Court® Studio and the soon to launch Fitness Court® in Geary.
More than 75 community members, leaders, and partners gathered to celebrate health, heritage, and art for the ribbon cutting in El Reno. The ceremony began with remarks from Marcos Baros, director of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes Diabetes Wellness Program, followed by a prayer led by Speaker of the Legislature, Kendricks Sleeper. Governor Reggie Wassana of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes expressed, “We are happy and proud to partner with the City of El Reno and the
other sponsors for this project. We look forward to providing healthy activities for the community and visitors alike. Creating health-conscious environments is a priority for the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes.”
The Fitness Court® Studio at Adams Park features artwork by Cheyenne and Arapaho artist and tribal citizen Adam Youngbear. Titled ‘Path of Our Ancestors’, the design beautifully reflects the rich heritage of the tribes, blending traditional symbols and historical events with a modern aesthetic.
El Reno Mayor, Steve Jensen emphasized the city’s pride in hosting this initiative and its broader impact on the community “We’re proud to provide the land and space for this project, showing just how strong our partnership is when it comes to promoting health and recreation. The Fitness Courts® Studio is something everyone in our community can enjoy, and we’re especially excited to share it with the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. It’s a great step forward in bringing people together for a healthier, more active future.”
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”The Fitness Court® Studio is something everyone in our community can enjoy, and we’re especially excited to share it with the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. It’s a great step forward in bringing people together for a healthier, more active future.
”El Reno Mayor Steve Jensen
In the City of San Jacinto, California, one woman is embracing the multihyphenate. A fitness trainer, community leader, and devoted mom of two –Darnae Wynn is transforming lives through her dedication to health and wellness. Darnae has harnessed her passion for fitness to inspire and lead many women toward their best selves. “Fitness transforms you not only physically but mentally as well,” she shares.
Her journey into the community spotlight began with a serendipitous encounter between herself and a city council member. Darnae shared her vision for a healthier community and this pivotal moment led her to become a key figure in bringing National Fitness Campaign to the city, and soon, spearheading the project that would become a cornerstone for community health – the Fitness Court® at Mistletoe Park. Working closely with the city, she has taken programming at the Fitness
Court® under her wing. By blending her professional training with the campaign’s mission, she has crafted a series of engaging and beneficial fitness programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of her community members. Her dedication was recognized when Darnae received an unexpected award at a city hall meeting in 2023, a testament to her impactful work. “This award reminded me that you don’t know who’s watching you...Always do your best and stay true to the mission,” Wynn reflects.
“If you’re an ambassador for a smaller town, not getting that much of a turn out as you’d like: show up anyway. There’s something in you that decided you wanted to do more for your community. Let that something in you drive you to not only be an example for others, but to remind yourself you were created for something more. You’re a force to be reckoned with. Keep going. See your vision through.”
Check out the full story here
Testimonials from Fitness Court® Users
Changing Health outcomes in Jackson, MS Community Champion
Health and fitness aren’t just for a certain demographic of people — it’s for everybody. Everybody should have some type of resource to come in and do something. This Fitness Court® is very user-friendly and for somebody that may not have the resources to pay for a gym membership. You can come out here for free, and you can walk.
After an amazing fitness journey of her own, Briana Benn has been determined to help other Jacksonians change their health and fitness. The trainer hosts weekly bootcamp classes and is preparing to open a gym of her own. Briana has been an integral part in activating the greater Belhaven Fitness Court® and is excited to help others experience the benefits of the Fitness Court® for their mental and physical health.
Leading Bonner & Senior Community
Since its installation in Center has become a key part of Tatum’s Thursday, she leads classes older, tailoring workouts to meet partnered with Bonner Springs 200 high school PE students introducing outdoor workouts, the mental health benefits of care for both their minds and
In a smaller community like Bonner opportunity to build strong relationships she shared. “I’ve gotten to know it’s been incredibly rewarding to something incredibly fulfilling about fitness. Helping others build the is what keeps me excited to show
Bonner Springs, KS Youngest Community to Health
Center Park, the Fitness Court® Tatum’s programming. Every for participants aged 55 and meet their needs. Tatum also Springs High School to teach over students about the Fitness Court®. By workouts, Tatum has also highlighted exercise, helping residents and bodies.
Pineville Lake Park, NC: Giving Back Through Fitness
Bonner Springs, there’s a unique relationships with the people I teach,” know many of the participants, and to watch them progress. There’s about seeing people embrace tools for healthier, happier lives show up every day.
The Fitness Court® offers an accessible space for community connection,” Christine says. “It’s a place where people can come together as neighbors and friends to do something positive for themselves. The group dynamic can provide that extra push for people who may be struggling to stay motivated or who are looking to try something new.
When she’s not on the Fitness Court®, Christine runs her own successful personal training business, CT Sculpt, where she empowers people to lead healthier, more active lives while also emphasizing the importance of supporting one another. Christine’s work extends beyond fitness; she is deeply committed to giving back. When Hurricane Helene devastated parts of Western North Carolina, she saw an opportunity to use her platform for good. In October of this year, 100% of the proceeds from Christine’s group classes on the Fitness Court® were donated to the NC Disaster Relief Fund, helping those impacted by the storm.
Our work at the Campaign is redesigning the built communities and schools. When you shape the built and Fitness Courts® as healthy hubs for active social wellness that changes the culture.
built environment to create healthy built environment to connect parks, trails, social engagement – you build community
With funding to reach 1,000 healthy communities by 2026, the campaign has incorporated a Healthy Site Score (HSS) Index for each campaign member. Along with multi-site funding for health impact, the campaign delivers a comprehensive community wellness program which includes planning and design services that assist in building a network of outdoor Fitness Courts®, free community wellness hubs, and connecting them with pedestrian infrastructure to maximize health impact in communities nationwide.
National Fitness Campaign’s public art and featured artist series stimulates and supports community creativity and engagement in arts, entertainment, and culture. While not a replacement for medical interventions, the arts can enhance health outcomes and reduce need for treatment by enriching the quality of life, for both mental and physical health. To date, the Campaign has partnered with more than 50 local artists and expanded the featured artist series of Keith Haring and Jean MichelBasquiat to 10 healthy communities.
