City Opens World’s First FitBLOCK Outdoor Gym

City Opens World's First FitBLOCK Outdoor Gym

Published on September 11, 2025

Free fitness training classes in Tierra Park begin September 17

Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird today thanked fitness and play equipment manufacturer KOMPAN for selecting Lincoln as the site of the world's first FitBLOCK outdoor gym in Tierra Park, 2800 Tierra Dr.

"This brand new, state-of-the-art outdoor fitness structure will enhance our community members' quality of life and position Lincoln as a national model for our commitment to health and wellness," Mayor Gaylor Baird said.

FitBLOCKs feature a system of exercise stations designed for both beginning and experienced athletes, including wheelchair users. The gym is divided into three sections: Cardio, Strength and a Social Corner, and can accommodate up to 28 users at one time.

As part of the KOMPAN FitBLOCK pilot program, the equipment was provided to the City of Lincoln at no cost by an anonymous donor and installed by Crouch Recreation and the City of Lincoln.

Joining Mayor Gaylor Baird at the news conference and ribbon cutting were City Councilmember Justin Carlson; Maggie Stuckey-Ross, Parks and Recreation Director; Eric Crouch, Crouch Recreation Owner; and Brad Pittam, KOMPAN Sales Director.

Director Stuckey-Ross said Tierra Park is a "hub of community activity" that will serve as the optimal location for the new outdoor fitness facility.

"Wellness is not one-size-fits-all, and this space is designed to meet people wherever they are on their journey," Stuckey-Ross said. "Today is another important step toward our vision of making Lincoln the quality-of-life capital of the country. I can't wait to see people of all ages working out here, side by side, building a healthier community together."

Crouch thanked all partners for their contributions to the project and invited community members to try out the fitness equipment that he said could "change your life."

"Crouch Recreation is excited to be part of building this fitness site at Tierra Park in Lincoln. The FitBLOCK site is going to be a great place to exercise for many years to come," Crouch said. "And my favorite part is the fact you can come back over and over and do a completely different workout each time."

Carlson said he was proud that the fitness area was located in the Southwest District he represents and looked forward to it serving a wide variety of community members.

"As we saw earlier this summer with the opening of the Mahoney Inclusive Playground, Lincoln is a paragon of accessible and inclusive play and fitness," Carlson said. "This new FitBLOCK system will provide opportunities for all residents to engage in fitness and for Lincoln to showcase its commitment to quality of life."

"Our mission is to create healthier and happier communities by delivering the best in play and fitness solutions," said Jethro Montzka, President of KOMPAN, North America. "We are thrilled that the City of Lincoln and Crouch Recreation are committed to that same mission and eagerly partnered with us in making Lincoln the site of the very first FitBLOCK installation."

Stuckey-Ross also announced that the Parks and Recreation Department will offer free circuit fitness training classes at the FitBLOCK site from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays, as long as weather allows.

For more information about Lincoln Parks and Recreation programs, visit parks.lincoln.ne.gov.