Citywide initiative returns with free pop-up fitness classes, free fitness center access and health screenings in parks citywide
CHICAGO, IL – The Chicago Park District proudly celebrates the third anniversary of “May in Motion,” an initiative dedicated to promoting health, wellness and an active lifestyle for Chicagoans in all 77 community areas. Since its launch in 2024, the initiative has inspired residents of all ages and abilities to get moving with access to a multitude of wellness and health programs.
“The Chicago Park District has always been a wellness resource that has offered access to amenities and spaces that promote physical activity and a healthy lifestyle,” said General Superintendent and CEO Carlos Ramirez-Rosa. “This month, we are reinforcing our commitment to community wellbeing by highlighting those opportunities and resources that residents need to improve their overall health.”
To celebrate “May in Motion” the Park District is hosting an array of activities for patrons and employees to get active. Residents are encouraged to recommit to making movement a part of everyday life in the parks.
Free Access to Fitness Centers:
Starting on May 1 through May 10, patrons can enjoy FREE access to over 70 fitness centers. Patrons can register online at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/may-in-motion or in-person at the participating parks.
Free Fitness Classes:
From May 4 to May 27, patrons can sign up to take a fitness class taught by their favorite Park District instructors. Classes are located at a variety of parks across the city and include Zumba, yoga, aerobics and more.
Free Health Screening:
On Thursday, May 7 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. the Park District is hosting a health screening at Ping Tom Park, 1700 S. Wentworth Ave. In alignment with our strategic goal to improve Community Wellbeing and ongoing efforts to promote healthy habits and reduce chronic disease through health screenings, the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Department of Family Support Services (DFSS) and other health partners will be offering health screenings and resources.
Free Pop-Up Wellness Classes:
Additionally, on Wednesdays during the month of May, patrons can join us at one of three pop-up classes offered at Norwood Park, 5801 N. Natoma Ave.; Ping Tom Park, 1770 S. Wentworth Ave.; and Valley Forge Park, 7001 W. 59th St. from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
‘Go Runs:
‘Go Run Chicago is a series of free organized Saturday morning community runs (1-mile or 5K) in Chicago’s parks open to everyone interested in racing, running, jogging, walking, or volunteering. A volunteer-led, neighborhood-centered initiative, the weekly runs strengthen the community and encourage healthy and active lifestyles through running and volunteerism. In its 10th Season of Community Runs, May will feature community runs at unique sites including Big Marsh Park, Horner Park, Garfield Park and Jackson Park. The program is hosted and managed by the Chicago Park District and the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA). A full schedule and pre-registration are available at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/go-run-chicago.
Tennis Pop-Up Events:
May is also National Tennis Month! A nationwide, grassroots effort driven by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and its industry partners to celebrate tennis. As a partner of the Chicago Park District, the USTA Chicago District has planned tennis activities throughout the month of May for park patrons to enjoy at local parks. Registration is recommended at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/may-in-motion.
City Department and Sister Agency Challenge: We are also challenging our employees and those of our peer departments and agencies to commit to participating in physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week and to sign up for their discounted memberships at Park District fitness centers. Employees of the identified agencies/departments receive a 30% discount on their membership. New this year, we are expanding free access to our fitness centers to the entire month of May for all city and sister agency employees in an effort to promote wellbeing in the workplace. Visit your local park with a fitness center to learn more. Find a fitness center at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/fitness-centers.
Parks and recreation are vital to community health, and the Park District plays an integral role in promoting health and wellness by providing Chicagoans with equitable access to resources that will allow them to live healthy lifestyles, regardless of identity, income, or neighborhood. The Park District’s efforts are guided by three health and wellness pillars that launched in 2024:
- Promoting Community Wellbeing – connecting community members, including Park District employees, to essential programs and resources that advance wellbeing, improve health outcomes, and enhance quality of life.
- Supporting Active Living Through Parks – providing access to spaces to allow Chicagoans to lead active lifestyles.
- Ensuring a Healthy Food Environment – supporting access to healthy food options for those who are food insecure; increasing nutrition education to improve diet quality and reduce chronic disease risk.
For more details and to register for May in Motion classes, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/may-in-motion