Parents and students in the Dexter Community Schools will get a chance to try out the new fitness equipment at Creekside Intermediate School Friday evening during a launch party.

Residents are invited to the school at 2615 Baker Road from 6-7:30 p.m. when children from the district will demonstrate the proper use of the equipment, so when school isn’t in session families can work toward their fitness goals.

The Project Fit America playground equipment was installed in 2011 as part of the Move Forward program, a health and fitness initiative of Dexter Community Schools. It was funded by the Chelsea Area Wellness Foundation through Chelsea Community Hospital, said Cheryl McLean, Move Forward program manager.

“Move Forward is a collaborative effort between school staff and parents to improve the school environment in ways that make it easier for kids to make healthy choices,” she said.

Both Creekside and Wylie received state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor fitness equipment specifically designed to improve children’s strength, flexibility and endurance,she said.

Members of the Move Forward Advisory Council, the Creekside Intermediate and Wylie Elementary staff, students, district officials, and representatives from the Chelsea-Area Wellness Foundation and Chelsea Community Hospital will be on hand to dedicate the project launch.

Also expected is Detroit Tigers’ mascot, Paws.

Along with the outdoor equipment, Project Fit America also provided a curriculum with fitness games and challenges, she said.

The Project Fit America equipment includes seven stations with equipment to increase upper body, lower body and abdominal strength.

McLean said during lunch, children are encouraged to try new fruits and vegetables at no charge, and students are taking advantage of the new equipment.

“Almost every staff member has been very supportive and participates in the program,” she said.

The program’s goal is for Dexter students and their families to be more active and eat healthier in a fun and sustainable way.

For adults who’d like to begin moving more, McLean said, “It’s never too late to get healthy for your family, and the Dexter Community does offer support.”

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