HealthPark at Grant Park Testimonies

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK

TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I was used to riding a fix bike back and forth to work approximately 7 miles each way. Sometimes after work I would normally go for a ride being I was used to riding on an average of 30-50 miles per day.

On this particular day I decided to go see my mother for a quick chat, after seeing my mother I decided to call it a day and head home but tragedy struck. After traveling only a block away from my mother’s I was stuck by a car. When I finally came to I was on my back, broken but not out.

When I arrived at the hospital I was in critical condition and was told that if I was not in physical shape that could have been my last day on earth but God had other plans. I had one collapsed lung four broken ribs and both of my clavicles were fractured. I had a 5 day stay in the hospital which was my first time but I survived the stay.

The doctors told me I should heal in 8-10 weeks lol. Me being who I am said no way will I allow this to beat me. I started as soon as I got out of the hospital I could barely breathe. Many days I cried because I couldn’t take 20 step without gasping for air.

I continued to tell my self I was going to get through this and everyday I fought harder and harder just breath take another step and before you know it I was getting stronger. I started going to the track just to get one quarter mile was grueling I struggled but I did it. Then one day at physical therapy I found out that I also had broken my hand and my nerve in my finger was permanently damaged and needed surgery but couldn’t be done because now I was in a cast for 9 weeks.

After the cast removal and surgery I went back to what I know best calisthenics. I trained hard everyday and I was able to run once again as of today I have completed three Spartan Races, one Pull Up Park Jam, which I took Overall Champion in my division, and I am 90% healed with having limited feeling in my hand I make do so with it.

That said when someone tell me they don’t workout because of injuries I just laugh cause they have no idea what I went through.

Mike Wendell Kennedy

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Community and confidence. Two things I’ve gained from calisthenics.

I’m an outdoor adventurer but a city girl at heart that thrives on connecting with people. The perfect combination to fall in love with outdoor calisthenics.

I’ve always been athletic. Softball. Running. Weightlifting. And most recently calisthenics.

I intentionally sought out a calisthenics group to train with. I had evolved from solely running to predominantly weight lifting over several years. But I wanted to keep evolving, and I wanted to be a well-rounded athlete. I wanted to focus on ability not aesthetics. I wanted to be able to do things with my body. I wanted to explore new movements. I wanted a new challenge. I wanted to get outside of the gym. I wanted to meet people. I wanted to be a part of something.

I found the Go Infinite Tribe, and I found much more than I ever expected. I found energy. I found purpose. I found the power of potential. I found the importance of play as an adult. I found community. I found friends for a lifetime. I found support like nothing I’d ever experienced. Not just in Chicago but across Chicago, the country and the world. My calisthenics community has no boundaries, and only keeps expanding.

A community that has been like no other I’ve experienced. A diverse community from all walks of life. Pushing me. Coaching me. Just as eager for me to reach my goals as I am. Never letting me give up or give in. Always supporting me in working towards being the best version of myself. A community that encourages movement. Promotes health. Welcomes struggles. Champions triumph. Competes to break barriers, not to gain ego. No gym. No weights. No cost. Open to all.

Accessible to all. All heart. All love. All passion.

Outdoor calisthenics creates community and provides opportunity to all.

I’ve been pushed in new ways, to new limits. Pushed past my fears, pushed to let go of control emotionally, yet focus my control mentally and physically. Focusing on new skills, new challenges with an amazing community got me back to loving movement and celebrating my body.

Outdoor calisthenics helped me find myself.

Kimberly Loewen

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I'd like to tell you a little bit about how outdoor fitness has impacted my life and turn my lifestyle around. In 2011 I used to weight 320 pounds. I was obese and needed to change my life it's all started with going on runs at the park, which then led to me being introduced to other kinds of fitness activities like calisthenics, outdoor boot camps and even boxing!

In groups and on our own being outdoors, when Mother Nature is great to us its an amazing thing to have! It's all about building a community of motivation ambition and respect to one and other. Chicago can impact the country by building that community of calisthenics and keeping it strong!

Efrain Torres

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I believe calisthenics changed my "strength life" as I have always wanted to be strong and a competitive lifter. Yes at age 3 I wanted to be strong and I was sure I could compete one day at it, like a sport. So, I've always lifted and been into strength training. But what calisthenics did was broaden my regimen and strength life. It did prove bodyweight training can get you strong and thick, muscular, buff, etc. I had already trained powerlifting, strongman, and arm wrestling. Calisthenics has been added to what I do/have done and I proudly tell people that half of my training is bodyweight/calisthenics. I train weights/powerlifting, calisthenics and arm wrestling type workouts too (including a lot of grip). I know Omari knows I am a competitive arm wrestler, and I am now a calisthenics athlete!

I actually started doing bodyweight training (making weekly routines) in April of 2016. I was back in a rut, I felt deflated, weak, and my weight was back down and would not come up. So, I started doing calisthenics, and I put on around 5 pounds of muscle. No it wasn’t a lot, but for me to gain is a big deal. I felt bigger, stronger, and thicker in 3 weeks! I was hooked and still am today. I follow a routine of one week bodyweight training and one week of (almost) all weight training (I have always done pullups on back day, dips of shoulder day). I deadlift every week, you got to! And since I am an arm wrestler I train arm wrestling specific 3x a week (meaning some days are a double workout).

Lastly, calisthenics has allowed me to meet people I probably would never have never gotten to meet. I've only competed once, but I met some awesome people.

Also, the camaraderie in the calisthenics family is the best I've experienced. Better than powerlifting and strongman without a doubt, and while arm wrestling has some great camaraderie, calisthenics takes the cake.

So, I hope this email, while a bit random and word-y, inspires those who read it and brings light to the sport and its athletes.

Brett Faught

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Hi! My name is Mervin Munoz, and I'm 38-years old. My calisthenics journey began in February of 2016 when I decided to make a lifestyle change and commitment to be more proactive with my health and fitness. After graduating college in 2000, I was more focused on working and hanging out with my girlfriend (now wife) and got into a comfort zone where I didn't feel like I had to stay fit anymore.

Fast-forward to 2006 when I got married then to 2009 when we had our first child.

Life started getting busy with being newlyweds, with our newborn, and our careers; definitely didn't seem like any free time at all; barely enough time to sleep so definitely no time to even think about fitness, right?

And now, fast-forward again to 2010 and 2014 when Baby 2 and Baby 3 come along! Let's just say I went from around 125-lbs in 2000 to around 158-lbs in 2014!

One more fast-forward to February 2016 when I accompanied my wife to a business trip in Provo, Utah. I took a selfie of myself just to see what progress was made over the past four months from eating better and boxing cardio. I liked what I saw and needed a new way of training that was flexible and convenient. Then I recalled back in the days when I was in grade school and my dad doing pushups, situps, and running regularly as part of his routine conditioning in the military. I don't ever remember my dad lifting weights so I thought why not give that approach a try. Pushups and crunches daily, which eventually included dips and pullups. I'm not going to lie, but yeah, I skipped legs day (but I'm doing more of them nowadays).

With this in mind, all I ever did in the past was weight training, then I'd get bored with the routine, then fall off the fitness cliff for like three months and so the cycle repeated itself.

Mervin Munoz, Part 1 of 3

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK However, with calisthenics or bodyweight training the possibilities are infinite. Such an abundance of routines, supersets, circuits, and reps & sets combos that it's would be hard to get bored or lose interest. If anything, I find myself having panic attacks because I'm overwhelmed with all the routines I want to try and not knowing where to start. Within the last nine months, my training has evolved and matured especially through all the connections and new friends I've made through social media. Through such networks, I've participated in online challenges, as well as hosted them. It's amazing all the talent that exists, and equally as inspiring, are the people working hard daily to make lifestyle changes for the better - for a healthier and happier life - promoting healthy choices and fitness progress.

Calisthenics has been a blessing for me, and at "38 years young" I feel stronger and better than ever. Trying to master your bodyweight in different movements and setting realistic goals to achieve keeps the mindset strong and the body craving for more. I find that the versatility of calisthenics allows me to train on demand no matter the setting or dress code. I've learned to utilize my surroundings and adapt to any-and everything around me to get a good workout in. No gym, no problem.

No equipment, no problem. All I need is myself and creativity.

Since calisthenics parks are not available in my area, I have to resort to nearby playgrounds or schools which is a challenge when school is in session. So other than the weekends, holidays, or summer breaks, getting a good bar workout the specific way I want to train is a challenge. Although my ideal workouts can't always happen, that doesn't mean I can't train. I firmly believe that if more calisthenics parks were made available, just as basketball courts, soccer fields, and tennis courts are, the community building and promotion of better health would increase.

Communities would grow stronger together through fitness no matter one's fitness level. It's a grounds of growing and learning together. No membership/gym fees required and accessible to the public to any- and everyone interested in basic bodyweight training. My three children (8, 7, and 3) have a strong interest in calisthenics also ever since they've seen how much happier and energetic I've been. My father and mother who are both on their early sixties have also taken my lead and are doing calisthenics daily with some basics I've shared with them.

Mervin Munoz, Part 2 of 3

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK All I can say is that calisthenics has changed my life forever! I eat, sleep, and dream of calisthenics! It had become both my passion and obsession! My mindset has strengthened along with my body. When I hear 1,000-2,000 reps routines, it doesn't intimidate me anymore. What's become most challenging for me is finding the time to do all the reps. Sometimes I have to break it up throughout the day to get them done, but it gets done, and that's where the flexibility of calisthenics becomes most valuable.

I'm thankful for all the support and friendships I've made during this renewed journey of mine. I am now pursuing a personal trainer certification so that I can further enhance my understanding of the principles and theories in the multifaceted areas of health and fitness. Calisthenics is no secret; it just needs more visibility and I'm doing what I can to spread the word! I can talk on the topic of calisthenics all day! Hopefully, my quick insight has expressed my utmost respect for calisthenics training and any- and everyone proactively pursuing their goals and dreams through mastering their own bodyweight!

Mervin Munoz, Part 3 of 3

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor Calisthenics is important to me because it allows me the freedom to interact with the natural elements. It’s a blessing to be in and around the world that God created. I take any and every opportunity to use outdoor facilities because it allows me the luxury of getting a “gym like” workout without being confined to the four walls of a facility.

Calisthenics has changed my life in more ways than many individuals know. I struggled to get the athletic results I desired. I followed pointless program after program and my dream athletic abilities never came into fruition. It was a piping, hot summer day, when I stumbled past a known park in Brooklyn, NY. It was Lincoln Terrace. I saw athletes at the top of their game, but the one thing that stood out was that there were NO WEIGHTS around. I had no clue how they were doing the things they were doing with their bodies, but all I knew was that there wasn’t a weight in sight! From that point on, I dedicated myself to learning about Calisthenics. I studied the athletes. The park setups and the community as a whole. I started training and surpassed every athletic dream I ever thought of.

Safe to say God place me at that park, at that time for a reason and I thank Him for it everyday.

The world needs more outdoor parks because society has been enclosed in a bubble that has told them that success is setup one way. “You can only get an amazing physique by hiring a trainer and lifting weights.” “If you take this pill and do this fitness program for three weeks, you will get a six pack.” Frankly, we need to society to FUNCTION better before we go changing the way it looks. People need to know the basics of the body. You learn your body by using your body.

Calisthenics forces an individual to use their body solely. When you combine the freedom of an outdoor park with Calisthenics, you get a brand new society with a sparkling new look on the way they function. Outdoor parks are mandatory because they are the key to infusing a positive mindset in a current world that is confused. Outdoor parks help free people financially. No more gyms, fees, memberships, or expensive personal trainers. It grants everyone the chance to take hold of their own lives, FOR FREE! Jon McLeod

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor calisthenics is important to me because I connect to a refreshing environment and the people that comes with it who shares the passions as I do creative a positive response whether muscles are being compromised or not Calisthenics changed my life because the grueling workouts i was introduced to changed my perspective on what it is to be successful. I learned that discipline, consistency and strong habits are crucial factors to checking off goals, I simply apply it to everyday life.

The world needs more outdoor parks because its a separate culture that has no reason to die like a gym, track or pool. There's a certain way relationships are built in a park compared to a gym and in my opinion the ones built in a park seem to be more memorable because of the open environment provides a youthful energy that simply brings us all in.

Arturo McKenzie

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor calisthenics gives me the freedom of exercising at almost any place, at any time that works for me. It also unites many people with a similar passion to this sport.

Calisthenics gives you endless possibilities of working out-routines or practicing new skills, because it does not require almost any special equipment. Through calisthenics I have learned a lot about my body and I also developed my discipline which now is the same no matter what I do. Thanks to the common passion for the outdoor activity I have met many great people that spread this sport in their cities or even countries.

World needs to see how many benefits come from the calisthenics culture. We need more places to show and spread this sport to masses of people what is actually happening in some countries where calisthenics parks are very common and natural thing.

Mateusz Dulski

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK It has been exactly one year and three months since I have decided to take up calisthenics. It has not only become a passion of mine but a way of life. Looking back at my younger self, going to the gym, I can say that discovering calisthenics has been one of the best things that could have happened to me.

Calisthenics truly is a community sport which allows you to connect with people who share the same passion and dreams. If the outdoor gym never got built near my house, I may not have even started this and may not have met the great people that I have.

Guillaume Jeon

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK My city is my home. I take much pride in my city and promoting fitness. Being a project champion for an outdoor fitness park was my way of giving back to my community.

Calisthenics, along with a healthy lifestyle, can optimize yourself to your full potential. For myself, I feel that I am able to enjoy life longer and be more active with my children, and challenge myself to be stronger each day.

Not only am I physically stronger, but I have made friends in Toronto and Chicago, but worldwide within the calisthenics community. Also, being a calisthenics ambassador has allowed me to contribute to my community, as well as become co-chair in a steering committee for the City of Toronto.

I believe outdoor work out parks are convenient, simple, range in intensity and more importantly, free for ALL to use! I strongly feel that they have the potential to encourage everyone regardless of age or ability to challenge themselves each day and incorporate fitness into their lifestyle.

Chicago’s Health Park is an amazing example of the large scale and exciting variety an outdoor workout park can be. Imagine what the rest of the world can do. I encourage you all, to “Aspire to Inspire”.

Walter Palaroan

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor calisthenics is important to me because it gives me the opportunity to exercise and become stronger without having a gym membership. It also is a means for me to connect with other men and women who value the same holistic exercise experience and who are resourceful in their quest for better health in a simply and creative way.

Calisthenics has changed my life by teaching me to take control of my life and to work harder. Controlling your bodyweight is more physically engaging than lifting weights and is therefore more humbling to me personally. In order to get better at outdoor calisthenics I have to continuously improve my mental body control and endurance too. These lessons serve me well in other areas of my life. I've also made many valuable relationships though outdoor calisthenics and I would say that the relationships I have with people who do calisthenics are stronger than with those I have with people at the gym, even if I only met them through social media.

The world definitely needs more workout parks because it can make health, community, and relationships more accessible to every neighborhood. I believe that parks with a health orientation are an effective tool to heal broken minds, bodies, and relationships and to further strengthen healthy ones.

Alex Tenuta

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK It’s important because you connect to the environment more and to nature you feel free, also because is free you don’t need to pay for it, you socialize with people more outside from different parts of the world. You learn a lot from other cultures like new food, new exercise etc, a lot of things that will lead you into a change. It’s hard to find something to keep you away from stress but calisthenics in the park helps to prevent that.

It change me in a very good way. I turned my life into a very positive life. I changed the way I eat first, also I learn how to do a correct and clean form on reps. I started to treat others better -- no hate but more love for those who teach me a lot about fitness that I never knew about. It helped also to have no fear to compete against others to see how strong and far I got, but most importantly to respect other athletes of the sport that really put the correct training out there in the world. It also inspired me to consider myself an athlete just has the people I look up has a kid like Bruce Lee, Muhammad Ali, and Michael Jordan.

We need more of this in the park because people needs to be fit females, kids, and older people so they can have a healthier life. Especially the kids the need to feel connected to the environment more, there is to much technology that keep kids away from the importance of being fit parks with calisthenics inspire and motivated kids to be fit and keep them more connected to society and teach them how to treat others, kids listen a lot when they see something that amazed them so it teaches them to listen and respect more. It always keep them away from negativity and bring them into a more peaceful and healthier life, when kids learn at a young age that they getting stronger they will tell their friends to join their journey so is a chain of hope for a better and healthier life.

Miguel Bebeto

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK To begin why is outdoor calisthenics important to me has to do with the fact that while I exercise outdoor, I feel closer to God. Also when I am outdoors, I am usually in an elementary school playground or a public park. Both locations have lots of families and children. Since I am a teacher I love children and families. The vibration that I feel from children and families inspires me to train even harder.

Calisthenics change my life because first of all I am able to do it for free without having to join a gym and travel to the gym. But even more so, calisthenics has helped me to do simple movements so that I could better improve my range of motion in different parts of my body. Years ago I broke my left elbow into places.

Calisthenics and yoga helped me to discover my road to recovery.

Truthfully speaking the issue is not do we need more parks, obviously the answer is yes, but we need more calisthenics parks. The reason for this has to do with the fact that exercise and movement has evolved further than what it was 20 or 30 years ago. People often ask me and members of my exercise group how do we use this equipment? The truth is we explain everything very carefully so that each individual can understand how to use the equipment. The truth is the equipment in the park and people wanting to use it is really an evolution in physical education.

Last, I would like to say that the wonderful thing about a calisthenics park has to do with the fact that any one can participate and enjoy the park regardless of age or gender or nationality. Regardless of someone's flexibility on mobility people can come and gradually increase their range of motion to do exercises that they feel are important. We need more calisthenics parks.

Tim Dickens

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor calisthenics parks are very important to me because I love to workout outside. I like to be out in nature and enjoy fresh air. It’s a lot more fun to be outdoors and enjoying the weather than to be inside in a gym or at home.

Calisthenics has changed my life because calisthenics are the BASIC movements that anyone should train all the time. With truly mastering the basic calisthenics movements like the push-ups, pull-ups, dips, squats, and sit-ups you can progress into more advanced movements. Also ANY calisthenics exercise can be modified to be easier or more advanced by changing variables such as angles, hand positions, adding weight, etc. Calisthenics have been a part of my program since back in 2007 and I still do them to this day. I love to train with different methods like weights, kettlebells, HIIT, running, but I always make sure to throw in my calisthenics movements into the mix.

The world needs an outdoor park in EVERY park so that the community can get together and train. Outdoor parks can be such a POSITIVE influence on people that take advantage of them. It can eliminate some gang violence since teenagers can go train instead of doing bad thing on the street. As a proud father, I would love to be able to take my son to the park and show him some calisthenics exercises and teach him the importance of training. Also… in reality outdoor parks are not even that complicated. Give us a couple of pull-up bars, and parallel bars and we are set. As we know the floor is always free and there’s no excuse not to do a set of push-ups anywhere.

Mario Castrejon

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor calisthenics is important for me because of the community it provides. It helps me spend my free time in a productive manner as opposed to go to bars and drink. For many people their options are even dimmer.

Calisthenics changed my life because it gave me confidence I always lacked. With that confidence it made me better in every aspect of my life outside of calisthenics. I can communicate better, more out going, have a easier time falling asleep, and much better at focusing. I would have never been able to afford a gym membership when I started but having the park as a option helped me grow as a person for free. At a time when I needed it the most.

The world needs more outdoor parks to give impoverished people a better option to spend their free time. People want to move, the more positive options they have the better. Through exercise people will learn many obstacles can be conquered.

Using calisthenics as an example, it takes a long time to reach a high level of calisthenics. Applying this same philosophy of hard work, and dedication will carry over to other obstacles such as school for kids, and career goals for adults.

The benefits of regular exercise are undeniable as this point. Everyone should have the opportunity to benefit from this no matter their economic status, gender, race, and I believe an outdoor park provides this.

Ed Checo

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Calisthenics is the foundation of my exercise regimen. The ability to control my body weight is very important to me.

The ability to exercise outdoors in the elements using an outdoor set up, is paramount as I feel more productive & motivated.

Calisthenics has changed my life by allowing me to work & stay in good physical shape. More importantly, it has created an outlet for me to de-stress my life by allowing me to focus negative energies into a more productive activity that's conducive to my well-being. It has also helped me build friendships with a host of like-minded individuals and motivate others to better themselves.

In my opinion, it should be MANDATORY that every park have a outdoor exercise area or areas to promote the importance of children and adults of staying active.

From what I have observed all these years is that all parks share the same key features - a children's play gym, basketball court, grass, trees, and park benches. I feel now from 2017 and on, outdoor fitness areas should be implemented into any future park design. The impact they will have on the communities that provide them is great.

Rodney Harrison

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK It Encourages unity, motivation, physical and mental activity, elevation, progression. Even acts as a base for interaction and impacts who you may turn out to be tomorrow. Some people really can't afford a gym. For me I appreciate nature being in the park working out under the trees. I hate being in the gym around summer time. You can get so much more from an outdoor park.

Alanna Reyes

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor calisthenics is important to me because it provides a fresh atmosphere to exercise with the calming elements of nature whether it's hot, cold, raining, snowing, windy or cloudy, there's just something about training outdoors that's refreshing and liberating. Each weather element brings out a different type of mode, and whichever one it ends up being it's an adrenaline rush that cannot be explained rather can only be illustrated through each rep repped. I feel more motivated training outdoors and more accomplished when I'm done with my workout.

Calisthenics has changed my life in so many ways that a few sentences would not be enough to explain it all. However, to keep it brief, calisthenics has opened my eyes to new ways of training. The versatility of calisthenics is uniquely valuable to anyone who embraces it and uses it to his or her advantage. Whether you have calisthenics equipment or not, all you need is you! Rep your own bodyweight in so many different ways, in any environment, in any attire! If you can move your body, then you can do calisthenics! I've gotten to the point that it's become instinctive that anywhere I go I'm always visualizing different ways I could train. This is one of my most favorite topics to talk about and I could talk about it all day.

The world needs more outdoor parks because it will be accessible to everyone with no gym memberships necessary. Access to parks that promote basic bodyweight training allows everyone the opportunity to rep the basics of calisthenics, as well as the inspiration to be creative in his or her own workouts. Outdoor fitness parks, overall, create an atmosphere that is both inviting and exciting!

Mervin Bino-Pi

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor Bar Calisthenics is important to me and so many others for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost is the creation of a positive community that develops.

I've had the good fortune of being able to travel a good amount and no matter where I go, there's always a calisthenics community that welcomes me with open arms. That's true from Brooklyn to Bangkok.

Secondly, it promotes good health for all, regardless of your social status. Not everyone has the money for a gym membership and you shouldn't have to pay to be fit. Having access to a high quality calisthenics park fills a much needed gap in that respect.

Thirdly, it teaches all people (but especially young people) important life skills like goal setting, not quitting in the face of adversity and also being a good sportsman.

So many of these types of skills can then be used for school, work, etc. These are just 3 of the many reasons why I personally love outdoor bar calisthenics.

Martin

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK They are the right price! I pay with my sweat, heart, time, and energy. I'm only contractually obligated to myself.

I get fresh air, I'm free and not bound by a gym I get an opportunity to build great bonds with like minded individuals whom possess the same passion as me. As they say all brothers and sisters aren't born from the same parents.

I get to teach and get taught. Valuable life lessons I've learned doing outdoor exercises. Such as staying dedicated when things get tough. Being honest with myself. Taking the time to do self inventory. Learning that it takes years to build your mind and body, and that motivation is full circle. You're going to get back what you put out.

Philemon Thomas

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Outdoor fitness is critical to undeserved people because it improves cardiovascular and mental health, which is essential to anyone's longevity. Outdoor calisthenics is a way to aid personal growth - by using your own body weight to find its full potential. I have always admired the brothers working out the parks since '06, specifically their strength and dedication. I always thought that type of fitness was out of my reach until I gave it a try myself. Let's help people find their and their body's true potential through encouragement, discipline, and the outside world!

Lani

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I love how it is set up with lots of trees and green space- it makes it more fun to have some nature involved, and to have the equipment spread out (not too far!) so that it is truly like a park or an outdoor gym.

Still the one thing Calisthenics needs is nomenclature- we don't have the words to use to communicate effectively. For example: What is that space called? A "calisthenics park"? An "outdoor adult fitness station"? "The pullup bars area"?

"Bodyweight Fitness Zone"? "Community Fitness Park"?

HEALTHPARK!!!! YES! That’s a wonderful name! The landscaping is so key too- nature helps build the spirit, and connect to the earth, especially in a city park.

Landscaping also helps to prove the space IS a year-round space....trees and shrubs have year round appeal, looking beautiful in all seasons. Love the concept of arboretum as well. Maybe edible landscaping? Space for community garden?

Yes, all of the above and even more! But, for the average person on the street, they don't know what that space is called, because we are still developing the language to use to communicate about this amazing passion and lifestyle of fitness!

Omari, God bless you for your vision and continued and sustained efforts!!!!

Blessings! So awesome Omari! You are such a visionary and a great leader. God bless you and all involved on the team.

Carl Ruik

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK It’s important to me for a few reasons. Primarily, having low body fat and a healthy heart is paramount to living an enjoyable long life void of medical complications.

Calisthenics provides muscle resistant training and cardio to accomplish this. The fact that it doesn’t cost anything is also very important. ANYONE can go to a park and start working out. Finally, working out and building a strong physique leads to increased confidence. This in turn leads to better mental performance in all aspects of one’s life.

Calisthenics made me realize that I don’t need supplements and expensive equipment to get ripped. And I want to get ripped. I’ve decreased my body fat percentage and have been able to lower my resting heart rate with calisthenics. It has also given me new purpose and drive to reach long term goals. A lot of calisthenics moves like the muscle up and front lever take time to achieve.

The main reason for more workout parks should be accessibility. So many more people could save money and see greater results. Calisthenics also brings a sense of community that you don’t always get in the gym.

Dane Robert

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Training outdoors is important to me because of the fresh air. We live. Travel. And work in controlled environments. In today's society. Not enough people "get outside to play". Being exposed to the elements and nature makes us stronger along with that. Outdoor calisthenics is free. It's literally one of few sports that is for everyone!!!

I've always been fit and active. Calisthenics has really filled a void when I'm travelling. Or when I don't have time, or money, to go to a gym.

I can do my calisthenics anywhere. There is a definite need for more pull-up bars though.

With obesity becoming a pandemic, and health issues related to being overweight coating governments and employees billions of dollars a year, both private sector and government funded fitness makes financial sense!!! Encouraging physical activity should be an initiative of any government who wants healthy citizens.

Coco Kissack

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK My generation has been conditioned to outdoor activities. My introduction to outdoor calisthenics started at the age of 8 years old by my third grade teacher, Ms. Shields, a no-nonsense black woman. I was the only black student in her class.

For recess we went outdoors to the school playground, a blacktop with basketball courts and on a ladder styled monkey bar setup. Each morning we would line up in formation, boys in front girls in the rear. We did jumping jacks, push-ups, pull-ups and ran relay races.

Calisthenics was the only form of exercise I had been exposed to. I began playing organized sports when I was 10 years old and played on the junior high school team for 4 years. In high school I became a three sport athlete earning a football scholarship to Winston-Salem State University still only doing calisthenics to stay in shape, working out outdoors all year round.

Outside was all we had. Outdoor activity included exploring, creativity, being innovative, making something out of what we had. Due to the lack of accessibility to indoor facilities made us more resourceful.

Today I am a calisthenics practitioner who is all for outdoor parks adding adult fitness areas. I remember parks before they had pull-up bars. I grew up in the parks and have been bringing my own children and grandchildren to parks for 33 years now. My children and I continue to workout outdoors. It has made us a healthy family and community.

Anthony

PERSONAL TESTIMONIES

THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Nationally, about two-thirds of adults and a third of children are currently overweight or have a body mass index (BMI) of over 30. A 2011 study by the CDC determined that Illinois had an obesity prevalence of 27.1%. With that said, why not have a place in Chicago where people can learn about and participate in fitness.

It's an innovative idea and a free solution to a growing epidemic in the Chicago area.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK It is important to recognize the current proposal would establish the first of its kind comprehensive healthy lifestyle space. This innovative approach embraces the future of healthcare with a shift toward prevention and community programming.

The proposal that is being considered would positively impact an entire community and be a shining example for cities around the world -- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I think it's a great way to lead the city towards a healthier future.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Fitness is always a great idea and for it to be in a location like Grant Park would be great motivation for residents and visitors to utilize the outdoor facility. I mean come on it's a free gym in a great location, no brainer!!

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Meditation while moving -- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This is a revolutionary idea that will pave the path for the people of Chicago and Chicago's future itself. I constantly use grant park to exercise by climbing on the walls and jumping off of things. This new idea will give those who want to exercise a place to do it. those that are interested in being healthy will now have a place to come to exercise. This idea will bring a community of people interested in bettering themselves to this spot to train and share disciplines and different exercise techniques. further spreading knowledge to people that otherwise wouldn't know how to go about getting started on living a healthy lifestyle.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK What a great opportunity for Chicago to be innovative in promoting healthy lifestyles. Grant Park is a perfect location, convenient for those that live and work in the area and a destination for so many visitors. This has the potential to make a clear statement that an important part of the culture of Chicago is living a healthy lifestyle. What a powerful approach by bringing together the two major... lifestyle choices that impact our health - what we eat (organic garden) and being physically active (movement space). Kudos to the committee for developing this plan.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This park would encourage exercise and physical wellness, would provide a place for all forms of movement arts, and especially for me and my peers, a fantastic environment for parkour and freerunning.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I love the idea for the healthy lifestyle park. Building a stronger community focused on the right set of positive lifestyle goals is a win-win for everyone. The park will also be another symbol of our city's innovation in urban green space alongside other amazing projects such as The 606 and Maggie Daley Park. Plus it could serve as an economic driver for the South Loop in the future.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK HIGHLY recommend everyone takes a labyrinth journey...it's like a meditative spiritual experience that takes you thru your entire life. I know a hidden Chicago Labyrinth, and am a major fan of it. Glad to see another one coming to Grant Park, where so many more people will find it. When I had my first Labyrinth experience one aspect I thought might be a little tough is having the labyrinth be in clamorous, busy public space, but actually when I walked the Labyrinth in the church there were A LOT of distractions -- the organist started warming up, tourists came in taking pics, the church staff were setting up chairs for the next session -this mean that I had to focus that much more intently and purposefully to meditate on my thoughts and my footsteps. The Labyrinth drew me in and none of those distractions mattered, and in an odd way they added to my insights bc they had metaphorical meaning within my thoughts throughout the Labyrinth experience.

GREAT new addition to Grant Park! So pleased for Chicago and our millions of tourists that will get to experience and share in this rare, but meaningful labyrinth life experience.

-- Omari Jinaki, Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This is so dope, can't wait until it's all done so I can break in those chitown bars.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This is a great idea! This will make a huge impact on healthy living in Chicago.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Although I am not a Chicago resident, as a member of the Fitness organization, Pull Up Park Jam, a fitness park is a great idea and way to reinforce the importance physical fitness. Children learn by seeing what their parents and other adults do, why not influence them early on of the importance of good health & fitness. I am in full support of this movement.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Free outdoor fitness equipment is a great option for all in the community. It provides a positive alternative to all residents: young and older. It promotes health and fitness. It builds community across socio-economic groups.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This is a fantastic idea! A great way to break down common exercise barriers (i.e., gym membership fees, intimidating gym atmosphere) and encourage residents to start or continue living a healthy lifestyle.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Fantastic program, every city park should have this! Chicago is leading the way as an innovative, world class city by doing this. Now when will San Francisco or LA start copying Chitown?

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Amazing program - Chicago has a paucity of outdoor workout facilities and this will be a boon for our community, reduce obesity levels and overall foster a friendly social atmosphere for people to get together and stay fit.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Great idea! Anything to get people outside and moving. It will expose new people to exercise and promote a healthier Chicago.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Can't wait for this to become a reality. It's exactly what the city needs and the immediate neighborhood and all those that visit will greatly benefit. Imagine the example we set for our future in addition to the opportunity for those without financial means to gain access to a great space to improve their health! I support it 100%!

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This is a very innovative plan. I can't wait to see it become a reality. There's a wonderful group of creative, innovative people working to make it a become a reality.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK What a terrific idea. I am sure it will be well used.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Definitely YES! I know I would use it. For those who have never tried it, it's a great way to meditate...not at all Coney Island. For me, meditation is easier if I'm moving

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This is a great idea and greens up the park. It is going where there is a huge 30,000 square foot piece of asphalt and new trees and green will turn the area into green space and health park. Elaine Soble needs to operate on facts and not just emotion.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This is fantastic. Kudos to the Grant Park Conservancy for being open to all of these different types of park experiences. Grant Park is one of the most multi-faceted and inclusive parks in the country, and initiatives like this are a big part of that -- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I am in full support. Furthers the concept of health and wellness that is pervasive throughout Grant Park.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK This is a wonderful idea. I love walking labyrinths and do so whenever I can. And this would help create a wonderful space for peace and mindfulness in the midst of our busy city -- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I would love to see this happen. A beautiful vision and generous offer. I hope it happens.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK What a great idea and a generous offer. Great work by the Grant Park Conservancy.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK What an awesome way to increase community, socializing, depth in mindfulness and awareness -- all things this city and world will benefit from! Plus, a naysayer said it will take away from greenspace when it will be put in a new 'health park' that's being built in an unused asphalt area. A no-brainer in my opinion!

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Great, is gives another opportunity for people to enjoy Grant Park while maintaining open space.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK YES!!!

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I love the idea. I think it would be another great addition to Grant Park and offer a unique experience to the city's residents .

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Would look great!! We need more public "art" in our city. The view from the buildings along Grant Park looking down on the labyrinth would be cool.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK I love that a resident would offer to invest in our city!! Thank you Janice Lewis and Bob O'Neill for caring about improving Grant Park!

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Perfect. What a way to spread inclusion to all residents of Chicago!! And get rid of asphalt to make way for greenery.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Perfect. What a way to spread inclusion to all residents of Chicago!! And get rid of asphalt to make way for greenery.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Perfect. What a way to spread inclusion to all residents of Chicago!! And get rid of asphalt to make way for greenery.

-- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Future generations will thanks us.

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK Another symbol of Chicago’s innovation in urban green space -- Comment on News Article

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THE HEALTHPARK @GRANTPARK It is hard to imagine a better use of public space -- Comment on News Article

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