New exercise area for park

Fitness equipment is being installed in Erichsen Park as a legacy to Saskatchewan Seniors Fitness Association programming held in the city in past years.

"The Saskatchewan Seniors Fitness Association (SSFA) is a volunteer, non-government organization that was formed in response to the need for an activity program for people fifty-plus years of age," explained Karen Theis, chairperson of the Yorkton SSFA Host Committee.

"Over the past seven years, Yorkton has successfully hosted to major SSFA events in the City; the 2004 SSFA Zone 4 55 Plus Senior Games and 2008 SSFA 55 Plus Games Provincial Games. These events were a great success, drawing participants from across the region and the province to Yorkton in the spirit of fun and participation. These events were also a success financially and to-date has accumulated a surplus of almost $12,000."

The surplus was something the local committee wanted to see used to create a lasting legacy, said Theis at the regular meeting of Council June 27.

"The Yorkton SSFA Host Committee wants to leave a legacy to the City and to seniors in our community. Therefore, we respectfully request permission to place four pieces of outdoor fitness equipment in Erichsen Park on Franko Drive. The entire cost of the project will be covered by the Yorkton SSFA Host Committee. It is our hope that this legacy will continue to keep seniors active for many years to come," she said.

Erichsen Park was picked for the equipment because of its location, explained Darcy McLeod, Director of Community Development, Parks & Recreation.

"Erichsen Park was selected because of the proximity to senior's housing and has an existing pathway that the seniors already use. The equipment would be installed at various points along the pathway to enhance senior's active living opportunities with mobility exercises. The equipment is intended to encourage senior's participation but it can be used by anyone of any age," he said.
McLeod said outdoor fitness equipment is a growing idea.

"The concept of outdoor fitness areas has been around for a long time, but only recently caught on in Canada and communities in Saskatchewan have just recently started placing outdoor fitness equipment on green spaces. The equipment is low to no maintenance and is designed for the elements. Instructional signage is provided as part of this project," he said.

For the City, the park proposal was a good one in terms of costs.

"All costs for this project are the responsibility of the SSFA Host Committee however, the City has been directly involved in the purchase and installation process," he said. " This project encourages active living for seniors and encourages further use of City parks, therefore Administration supports this request."

Council unanimously supported the request to make the donation.