Cheer Story: Fresh Air Fitness: Community Wellness in the Heart of Woodlawn Park

Nestled in the natural beauty of Woodlawn Regional Park, Fresh Air Fitness is a free outdoor fitness space that offers something for everyone.

Peggy Rohatyn and Debby Knight have helped guide the vision from concept to reality. When they approached Woodlawn Regional Park with their vision for utilizing the park property, Woodlawn Park board members immediately jumped on board.

The initiative was sparked by a fundraising event called the "Coal Country Run", and over several years, with help from local businesses, residents, and organizations, the project has flourished.

Today, Fresh Air Fitness continues to expand with new amenities, including The Pit (a sand-based obstacle and strength area), The Shred Shed for weight training, a rehabilitation zone with accessible equipment, a yoga platform, a meditation space, walking and running trails, a newly added pickleball court, and a disc golf course.

“The amount of financial, emotional, and physical labor support we receive is astounding,” Debby shared. “It feels to us that the facility is so appreciated that the users actually police it for us.”

Despite being an outdoor space in Saskatchewan — with all the weather-related challenges that implies — Fresh Air Fitness has thrived. “Mother Nature does provide some issues with equipment wear,” Debby admitted, “but overall, the place is very well respected by the community.”

Two of the newest features have already become community favorites. A pickleball court was added thanks to a generous $25,000 donation from Tundra Oil & Gas and Kingston Midstream. “We saw the growing interest in this fast-growing sport and wanted to give people another option,” Debby explained.

Even more unique is the Disc Golf Course, an idea that came from Debby’s grandsons. “They’ve been playing for years and told me it’s very popular with younger people,” she said. The course is already listed on the U-Disc app, allowing players from around the world to find and explore it. “There’s been tremendous interest — even during construction, people were already out playing.”

“We see all kinds, ages, abilities, and demographics,” said Debby. From seniors using the rehab equipment, to athletes training with their teams, to families working out together — the space brings people together. “Nothing makes our hearts more happy.”

Huge kudos to Debby Knight, Peggy Rohatyn, and all the amazing volunteers and supporters who brought Fresh Air Fitness to life. Thanks to their passion and community spirit, Estevan now has an outdoor space that’s fun, free, and built for everyone. Next time you’re in town, swing by Woodlawn Regional Park and check it out!