July 10, 2025
From the state capital to small towns across the Commonwealth, civic leaders in Virginia are coming together to make wellness more accessible—and outdoor fitness more visible—through National Fitness Campaign. With a growing network of Fitness Courts® now open across Virginia, the state is becoming a model for how public spaces can be transformed into vibrant wellness hubs that bring people together.
The initiative is backed by a statewide partnership with Aetna, who joined the campaign as the official sponsor of the Virginia network in late 2023. Since then, the momentum has continued to build, with new launches in Richmond, James City County, and Henry County—all powered by strong civic leadership and community-driven activation.
In Richmond, where the first Aetna-sponsored Fitness Court opened, the city’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities has made wellness infrastructure a key priority.
“The City of Richmond is proud to support initiatives that align with our commitment to improving community health and wellness,” said Chris Frelke, Director of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities. "Public parks and recreation play a crucial role in addressing challenges like obesity, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity. By providing accessible facilities and safe, connected routes, we create spaces where people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can engage in healthy activities. These efforts go beyond fitness; they are about fostering connections, reducing stress, and enhancing overall wellness. We believe that when communities have access to quality parks and recreational opportunities, they thrive, and we are dedicated to ensuring everyone can live a healthy, active life.”
In James City County, the campaign has brought free outdoor fitness to the Tidewater region for the first time. Opened in October 2024, the new Fitness Court quickly became a community gathering space—marked by a spirited launch event that included first responders, local leaders, and families.
“We are so fortunate in James City County to have the outstanding Parks and Recreation facilities that we do and to have one more really cool thing I think is so great and is what makes our community so unique in what we offer,” said Board of Supervisors Chair Ruth Larson.
The launch featured a “Battle of the Badges” relay where the James City County Fire Department and Police Department faced off in a high-energy, three-on-three workout challenge. The friendly competition ended in a tie—but more importantly, it underscored how this outdoor space is already sparking connection, camaraderie, and movement.
Further west in Henry County, community leaders brought the campaign to life in November 2024 with a focus on long-term impact.
“Something like this will hopefully inspire people to come out and light the fire,” said Garrett Dillard, Iriswood District Supervisor.
“I mean this is not going to be an all-in-all solution, but if it lights the fire, more people come out and participate. Hopefully, this will lead to them finding other ways along with this to work on their physical health.”
Across Virginia, the campaign continues to gain traction—driven by mayors, park directors, town managers, and local champions who are bringing their vision for community health to life.
In Dumfries, one of the earliest adopters of the Fitness Court, Mayor Derrick Wood has become a vocal community champion and an example of leadership in action. Since launching their Fitness Court in August 2023, Mayor Wood has invited residents to “move with the mayor” as part of his larger Let’s Move, Let’s Heal initiative, promoting physical and mental wellness through connection and consistency.
"Let’s Move, Let’s Heal is about making mental wellness a way of life," Mayor Wood shared in a public message encouraging residents to join him on the Fitness Court. His personal involvement reflects a broader trend: when civic leaders activate these spaces directly, communities follow.
Further south in the Town of Wise, the council launched its Fitness Court in November 2023 with the same goal in mind—providing long-term value for residents.
“The Town of Wise Outdoor Fitness Court located in the Town of Wise Sports Complex is just the beginning of many examples of the Town of Wise Council’s dedication to providing multiple types of outdoor recreation and fitness opportunities for the citizens of the Town of Wise and surrounding communities,” said Town Manager Laura Roberts.
With support from statewide and local partners, the movement in Virginia is still growing. Each Fitness Court launch represents more than just a new place to work out—it’s a commitment to healthier, more connected communities.
