RiverFit will remain open until April 2015 based on its success during a three-month trial period, according to officials.
The Memphis Grizzlies Riverfront Fitness Trail inside Downtown’s Tom Lee Park opened in September. Called RiverFit for short, the trail stretches along the western edge of Tom Lee Park.
It features six workout stations with pull-up bars, monkey bars, battle ropes, abdominal benches, plyometric boxes, and an obstacle course. It also has two full-size sand volleyball courts and a lined soccer field with goals.
“The initial intent was for a three-month installation, but the incredible response from park users and from the fitness community in general justifies an extension,” said Diane Terrell, executive director of the Memphis Grizzlies Foundation and Community Investment team. “Our goal for the project was to contribute to the culture of fitness that is growing up around Memphis. Since the launch, more people are using the park and using it more often so we’re thrilled.”
Dr. Heather Jameson of Rhodes College observed and researched the trail’s use and found “an increase in intergenerational usage of the park, greater interactions across diverse social groups, and a higher volume of (park) users at all times of day since the fitness trail’s installation.”
RiverFit was realized through a partnership that includes the Memphis Grizzlies, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Riverfront Development Corporation, Mayor A C Wharton, the Division of Parks and Neighborhoods, and additional input from Memphis-community fitness enthusiasts.
