A new fitness court at the Smith River Sports Complex is now open to the public, offering free access to workout equipment aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles. Sponsored by Aetna, the court is part of a statewide initiative to provide accessible fitness opportunities for residents 14 years and older.
The facility officially opened on Nov. 19 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a friendly fitness challenge between Patrick & Henry Community College athletes and members of the Henry County Sheriff’s Office.
“It’s truly a special day here in Henry County,” said Roger Adams, director of Henry County Parks and Recreation. The county is among the first in Virginia to launch this type of fitness court, which focuses on body weight exercises and integrates with a mobile fitness app.
The court was developed to combat rising health concerns. According to Garrett Dillard, supervisor of the Iriswood District, Henry County ranks 119th out of 133 counties in Virginia for health outcomes, with a life expectancy nearly five years below the state average. Additionally, 42% of the population is classified as obese, and only 22% report having access to fitness facilities.
“Yes, we have a fair share of health problems, but we also have an opportunity to solve them if we work together,” said Dillard. He encouraged residents to embrace healthier lifestyles and challenged local employers to support employee fitness through incentives.
Dr. Sandy Strayer, a program officer with the Harvest Foundation, emphasized the need to address the county’s health disparities, while Brad Kinkema, executive director of the YMCA, expressed interest in partnering to offer classes at the court.
“This is really something special,” Adams added. “When we first heard the idea, we weren’t 100% sure about it. But as we got into it, we saw that it’s truly unique. To my knowledge, there’s nothing around here like this.”
The event’s highlight was the fitness contest, where student-athletes narrowly defeated sheriff’s deputies by just over a second. Sheriff Wayne Davis praised the court as a valuable addition to the community. “We are really thankful to have this here in Henry County,” Davis said. “We encourage people to come out and focus on their health and well-being.”
The fitness court was made possible with support from the Harvest Foundation and Boxley Materials Company, along with contributions from county staff.
The Smith River Sports Complex is located at 1000 Irisburg Road in Axton.
