When Allentown residents needed a membership-free fitness workout location, General Recreation was there to help them design an outdoor fitness system at Jordan Park.

Park Superintendent Rick Holtzman and his team worked with Steve Hemler of General Recreation to design a complete outdoor gym experience using Landscape Structures’ HealthBeat equipment.

Steve and Rick have worked on many playground projects in Allentown over many years, but this was their first outdoor gym equipment project together.

“It’s fun to work with clients that have the foresight and ability to take recreation to the next level – it’s uncommon to see something this progressive. They’re proactive in evaluating and implementing what’s new,” said Hemler.

Inspired by the beachside gyms on the West Coast, Holtzman envisioned a comprehensive exercise area along the bustling pedestrian trail that runs through the park and connects to downtown.

Ample green space, a pool, and several basketball courts and baseball fields are located nearby.

“Steve was able to take the vision in my head and make it real,” recalled Rick. “We’ve grown up in the parks and rec industry together, and Steve is the guy you can lean on. He wants you to learn and understand the process. You can rely on his team to come through with the product. Gen Rec’s support staff and customer service is unbelievable.”

Hemler’s design includes a variety of components so that teens and adults of all fitness levels can experience a thorough workout targeting three core fitness areas: muscle strength, cardiovascular health, and balance/flexibility.

Some specific components include an elliptical machine, cardio stepper, and squat press.

“The installation was easy and smooth,” said Holtzman. “Steve trains our staff well, which helps us save money, allocating more funds toward equipment.

Positive community response to the outdoor workout area at Jordan Park has been phenomenal, Holtzman said, with 10 to 15 people working out at any given time, whether early in the morning, midday or after work.

General Recreation in Newtown Square serves Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, and has helped hundreds of community leaders and organizations build playgrounds that are safe, aesthetically pleasing and made to last.

General Recreation projects are supported by expert services, including site evaluation, playground design, installation, and community build services.

Find out more about the work of General Recreation.