Arlington seniors will be able to step, pedal and balance their way to enhanced health and wellness at two Arlington public parks in the near future.

The North Texas Specialty Physicians (NTSP) Charitable Fund is donating $60,000 worth of Xccent fitness equipmentto Clarence Foster and Wimbledon parks in an effort to reduce falls, provide additional rehab locations and encourage socialization for seniors among peers and younger generations.

'The NTSP Charitable Fund is honored to be partnering with the City of Arlington Parks and Recreation Department, who shares our vision for expanding opportunities to improve the health and well-being of our older adult population. We are proud to be donating two age-friendly wellness exercise systems, that are ADA compliant and geared towards older Americans. The NTSP Charitable Fund Board of Directors wanted something unique, functional and promote good health that would be of long-term benefit to local residents' says Regina L. Sobieski, NTSP Charitable Fund Foundation Director.

Falling is the leading cause of injury among adults 65 and older, which is why the system is designed to build and improve confidence, balance and strength needed to reduce falls. The system incorporates a variety of activities that focus on flexibility and core muscle strength and features equipment such as Tai Chi wheels and hand bike to promote gentle physical activity.

The parks were chosen based on their relative proximity to senior recreation centers and senior populations. The equipment is the first of its kind in Arlington, and is something that the aging adult population has been requesting for years, said Parks Project Manager Jadey James, who is coordinating the project along with the NTSP Charitable Fund.

'Without the grant we received from the Charitable Fund, a project like this wouldn't happen,' said James.

A timetable for the installation of the equipment is being created, with sights set on the fall for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The project aligns with the Arlington City Council priority to 'Champion Great Neighborhoods.'

Clarence Foster Park is located at 4400 Woodland Park Blvd, Arlington, TX 76013

Wimbledon Park is located at 2300 Wimbledon Dr., Arlington, TX 76017