To combat the high rates of chronic disease and obesity prevalent in San Antonio, the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department collaborated with the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District to leverage existing park and recreation facilities, and increase opportunities for physical activity. 

One improvement made to the built environment in San Antonio was the installation of outdoor fitness stations in 28 city parks. The stations include equipment specifically designed to help individuals increase strength, improve balance and flexibility, and engage in cardiovascular conditioning. Signs accompany the fitness stations to ensure safe and proper use.

Park locations were chosen based on their unique features and suitability; the stations are spaced evenly along designated trails or grouped together in the form of outdoor “gyms.” The fitness stations are intended to serve all the residents of San Antonio; however, a majority of the stations are strategically located in underserved neighborhoods with the highest rates of obesity.

While the original goal was to install stations at 14 parks, the equipment was so well received by residents that plans were implemented for an additional 14 installations. Currently, San Antonio has fitness stations at 30 parks throughout the city.

The partners attribute project success to top political support. Mayor Julian Castro facilitated an enthusiastic collaboration with the Mayor’s Fitness Council to publicly promote the fitness stations. High use of the equipment has been recorded, and a user survey conducted in partnership with a local community college yielded positive responses from residents. Project leaders hope the success of the project will continue to inspire new opportunities and programs to promote healthy lifestyles in San Antonio.