Metroparks Toledo and Mercy Health are pleased to announce a new partnership that will provide Metroparks’ visitors new ways to enjoy the outdoors while improving their health and wellness.

The Mercy Health Foundation is donating $100,000 a year for each of the next five years to fund the purchase and installation of all-weather, ergonomically-designed fitness equipment which incorporates the elements of a well-rounded fitness routine into outdoor fitness stations. Through this gift, Mercy Health and the Metroparks wants to provide additional health resources for the community, at no charge.

The first of the new equipment will be installed near the Ward Pavilion at the east entrance to Wildwood Preserve as soon as next spring 2018.

Mercy Health and Metroparks collectively are working to address the obesity epidemic in Lucas County. With nearly 70 percent of all Lucas County residents either overweight or obese, this new outdoor equipment venue is designed for users of all abilities and fitness levels so as residents, even with no previous exercise experience, can use it to begin their health journey.  The GTfit workout stations from Game Time at Wildwood will include three nodes with equipment designed for: aerobic and balance exercise; core and muscle strengthening; and accessibility.

“This will add a new dimension to the Metroparks experience,” said Dave Zenk, executive director of Metroparks Toledo. “Many people use the parks as part of a healthy lifestyle, and now, thanks to Mercy Health, we will be able to provide additional ways to improve fitness in an outdoor setting.”

Metroparks is working with David Williams & Associates, a Game Time distributor that has supplied equipment for many of the park district’s playgrounds.

“At Mercy Health, our commitment to health extends beyond the walls of our facilities. We want to empower the community to take back their own well-being and start the journey to healthy living,” said Bob Baxter, president and CEO, Mercy Health. “The Metroparks are a staple in northwest Ohio and they serve as a great community destination for outdoor fun and exercise. Mercy Health is honored to partner with them on bringing another element to outdoor activity via these fitness stations.”

Zenk added: “Mercy Health brings expertise in health and wellness, in addition to its generous financial support. This is the kind of partnership that allows us to go beyond providing core services, leveraging the expertise of our community while minimizing the financial burden on the taxpayers.”

About Mercy Health - Toledo

Mercy Health - Toledo is a member of Mercy Health, the largest health system in Ohio and the fourth largest employer in the state. Locally, Mercy Health is based in Toledo, Ohio and serves 20 counties in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Mercy Health – Toledo provides comprehensive primary and critical care services to residents as well as a robust physician group, Mercy Health Physicians, Life Flight critical air transport services and Mercy College of Ohio.