STAFFORD – Lots of people vow to get fit as part of their New Year’s resolutions, but a new option in Stafford makes it easier – and more affordable – than ever. Residents can now skip costly memberships and enjoy free outdoor workouts at the town’s first Fitness Court. Located at the Nautilus Park Complex on 485 Nautilus Drive, the facility offers an innovative way to achieve wellness goals for individuals aged 14 and older, regardless of fitness level or ability.
Stafford Township celebrated the December opening of this state-of-the-art fitness center, marking the start of a unique partnership with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and the National Fitness Campaign. The project, funded through grants from Horizon, emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring everyone in the community can participate.
Renee Woodside, a representative from Horizon, highlighted the significance of the project. “Horizon is proud to sponsor this initiative because it aligns with our mission to empower the communities we serve to achieve their best health,” said Woodside. She noted that Stafford’s facility is the first of many fitness courts Horizon plans to sponsor across New Jersey.
Features include ADA-compliant sidewalks, a paved pathway, and a variety of fitness stations. Someone who uses a wheelchair will be able to enter the court to do exercises without blocked access. The adaptable equipment allows access to equipment for pull-ups, core strengthening, and agility drills.
Patrolman Tyler Szwed demonstrates use of the new equipment as Officer Anthony Vincent explains the exercises. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
A QR code at the site provides instant access to suggested workouts, making it easy for participants to start their fitness journey. Users are encouraged to download the free Fitness Court App, a convenient pocket-sized coach that enhances the outdoor fitness experience with digital support and personalized guidance.
Township Administrator Matthew von der Hayden credited Council President Lisa Mower for initiating the project after she observed a similar facility elsewhere. He emphasized the collaborative effort behind the project, which involved the township’s public works, recreation, and engineering departments.
Mayor Robert Henken said the fitness center aligns with the mayor’s wellness campaign as well as the Sustainable Jersey campaign.
“As mayor, I have made a commitment, along with the Township Council, to create a more inclusive and healthier community. We do that in the decisions we make for the community on a regular basis,” said Henken.
Local resident Debbie Dooley, a physical therapist and member of the Green Team Advisory Committee, shared how the fitness court complements the activities of the Stafford Pathfinders walking group. The group meets regularly at Nautilus Park to promote health and wellness through exercise and social connection.
“This fitness court fits perfectly into our program,” said Dooley. “It provides an opportunity for people to get active without the financial burden of a traditional gym membership.”
As Stafford Police Officer Anthony Vincent narrated, Patrolman Tyler Szwed demonstrated how to use the equipment during the opening event. Both officers serve as PT Instructors for the local department.
Stafford’s facility is the first of many fitness courts Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey plans to sponsor. (Photo by Stephanie Faughnan)
Szwed, an ultramarathon runner, showcased exercises like planks, push-ups, sit-ups and squats, highlighting how the equipment accommodates various fitness levels.
Members of the local police department take part in various law enforcement competitions throughout the tri-state area. Vincent said that access to outdoor equipment enhances training opportunities.
“Having access to outdoor equipment like this is crucial, because all of our competitions that we do are outdoor,” he said. “It’s really nice to get outside and you have the track to run around once you complete the exercises.”
Nautilus Park is also home to sports fields that are used for soccer, flag football and pickup softball games. As members of Stafford’s community policing unit, Vincent and Szwed highlighted yet another advantage of the fitness court.
“It’s usually a tough thing for parents who have young kids to get a workout in that same day,” Vincent said. “Now they can drop their kids off for practice and come work out.”
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