Community outdoor fitness spaces a fantastic idea

This week, the Town of Huntsville General Committee heard from many user groups asking for funding from the tax payers to put towards what they want.

Now, in principle, I support any and all recreational projects that better the overall active and health lifestyle in Huntsville, Muskoka and really anywhere in the world.

However, not all projects are created the same. For instance, one that would benefit everyone is the The Movement for Strength, Conditioning, and Active Lifestyles for Everyone (MSCLE) Project is an initiative that was established in 2019 by the TriMuskoka Triathlon Club and is being led by Dr. Rich Trenholm.

The plan is to set up free fitness parks throughout the community to help every age group and fitness level meet their goals for a healthy and active lifestyle.

The funds for the project will be achieved through TriMuskoka funding, in kind donations, community sponsorships, and partnerships with provincial and federal organizations.

They have pinpointed three potential locations to start with: McCulley-Robertson Sports Complex, Avery Beach, and at Conroy Park.

The cost for the initial project to buy and install equipment at two of these locations will be in the $100,000 to $135,000 range, depending on certain fluctuations in equipment and installation costs.

TriMuskoka has $50,000 available to put towards the project through their own funds raised at events and a Desjardins Community Grant. Trenholm noted additional funds could be raised through fundraisings at the TriMuskokan and Sunrise Swim for Strength event, with grants, through sourcing out in-kind partners (ie donation of equipment), and through HMATA funding.

Trenholm also mentioned TriMuskoka buying the equipment and then having the Town install the equipment in a partnership situation. He also mentioned collaborating with the Fit City Project, which works with municipalities to provide outdoor gym equipment at greatly discounted prices.

Trenholm’s ask was to start moving forward by getting the thumbs up from council to support the project.

As someone who just helped get approval for the Huntsville Soccer Club to purchase and donate covered team and referee benches to the community, I applaud any user groups who go before council with at least half (if not more) of the monies needed to fund their projects.

From that point of view, this is a must for our community and it’s time to get the proverbial ball rolling on the MSCLE Project.