Smith County, Kansas came together under bright summer skies to celebrate the grand opening of the new Fitness Court Studio at Smith County Memorial Hospital (SCMH). In partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, the Kansas Health Foundation, the Smith County Drug and Alcohol Council, and NFC, this launch marked a major step forward in advancing community health, wellness, and outdoor fitness for residents of all ages.

The celebration, held on July 10, drew community members, civic leaders, and health professionals to the SCMH campus, where a ribbon cutting ceremony marked the official opening of the new Fitness Court. Guests enjoyed live demonstrations, fitness challenges, giveaways, and fresh fruit kabobs as they explored the free, all-abilities outdoor gym. A vibrant prairie-scape art wall, designed as a tribute to the beauty of Kansas, set the backdrop for the day.

Community Leadership and Dedication

Hospital leadership was proud to share the significance of the project with the community.

“At Smith County Memorial Hospital, we believe caring for your health is an act of stewardship. Bringing a Fitness Court Studio to our campus is exciting because it’s more than exercise; it’s empowerment. Here, strength is built not only in muscle but in community. With the Fitness Court Studio, we’re embracing the opportunity to help our community thrive,” said Sarah Ragsdale, CEO of SCMH.

Representing Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, Virginia Barnes, Director of Blue Health Initiatives, underscored the importance of making outdoor fitness accessible across the state.

“We need more innovative solutions to address the physical activity needs of all Kansans. Solutions that will level the playing field and allow everyone a safe place to enjoy the outdoors and improve their health. We believe that all people deserve this opportunity, and we are proud to partner with Smith County Memorial Hospital and NFC to show our commitment to improving the health of all Kansans.”

The program also featured remarks from Physical Therapist Taylor Kuhlmann, followed by dynamic demonstrations led by local fitness ambassadors Hilary Peterson, Alyssa Bienhoff, Megan Mans, Whitney Newell, and Kelly Jackson. Together, they showcased the seven exercise stations on the Fitness Court and invited participants to test their strength in community challenges.

Fitness Court Programming: Classes for Every Body

The launch was just the beginning. Smith County Memorial Hospital quickly put the Fitness Court into action by introducing free, accessible classes designed for all members of the community:

Exercise for All Levels—Led by physical therapist Taylor Kuhlmann and physical therapist assistant Alyssa Bienhoff, this class offered an approachable introduction to the Fitness Court. Participants learned adaptable movements that could be scaled to their fitness level, building strength, balance, and confidence in a welcoming environment.

Fitness Court Cardio—Local instructor Hilary Peterson guided community members through a high-energy class designed to challenge endurance and boost heart health. This functional, fun workout showed how the Fitness Court can be used to push limits and support long-term wellness goals.

Arthritis-Friendly Workout—Designed for residents managing joint stiffness or chronic pain, physical therapy assistants Whitney Newell and Megan Mans led a gentle, joint-friendly workout focused on flexibility and functional movement. This low-impact class demonstrated the Fitness Court’s ability to serve every member of the community, regardless of age or ability.

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The Fitness Court Studio also drew the attention of state leadership. In August, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran visited Smith County Memorial Hospital, where CEO Sarah Ragsdale led a tour highlighting the Fitness Court and the hospital’s growing role in supporting rural health and wellness. The visit emphasized the importance of community-driven projects like this in sustaining both local health outcomes and the rural economy.

With the launch of the SCMH Health Pathways Fund through the Smith County Community Foundation, the Fitness Court stands as just the beginning of a long-term investment in the county’s future. “This fund reflects our shared commitment to building a healthier future for Smith County — one step, one stretch, and one project at a time,” the foundation shared.

A Future of Strength in Smith County

The Fitness Court Studio at Smith County Memorial Hospital is now open and already serving as a hub for movement, connection, and community pride in rural Kansas. With strong leadership, engaged civic partners, and a growing suite of community classes, Smith County is showing what’s possible when health and wellness are prioritized.

Be Next to Launch

Smith County has proven how a community can transform its approach to wellness with a Fitness Court at the center. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring this momentum to your community.

‍Contact NFC today to explore how you can join the movement.

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