Dannelly Fitness Circuit at Cliffview Makes the Outdoors Accessible For Everyone
Dr. Edward Dannelly III Fitness Complex Important Part of Fitness Accessibility
For area residents who aren't able to tackle the New River Trail along Chestnut Creek, maybe an outdoor fitness circuit nearby is the next best thing. A freshly sealed walking track circles a field with adult fitness equipment at the Edward Dannelly III Fitness Complex.
After Hurricane Helene damaged portions of Cliffview's recreation area, Virginia's Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) had their work cut out for them. Portions of the shoreline washed away. Erosion impacted the parking area and the campground filled with debris. The Dannelly Fitness Complex sustained limited damage. But after the DCR restored and reinforced the shoreline, made substantial improvements to the parking lot, and added new signage, benches and attractive fencing, the fitness circuit is looking really great.
Cliffview is a favorite destination for recreation, picnics, and tent camping (reservations receive priority). Weekends often see this hidden gem buzzing with families and friends. Folks who want to cross the bridge and use the New River Trail are required to buy either a daily park pass or an annual pass and display those tags in their vehicles. Access to the Dannelly Fitness area, a section that includes a gazebo and picnic tables, is free to the public and doesn't require a state park pass; it makes for great place to do a workout and enjoy the outdoors without heading out on the New River Trail.
If you haven't been over to Cliffview in awhile, it's worth it to see the improvements to the site. It's also worth it to walk the track and get new ideas for your own fitness program. Plus, the playground equipment for the kids is still a main attraction – the kids can play while you exercise.
There are incremental pedestals where you can balance and stretch those hamstrings. A platform for sit-ups and push-ups adds another feature for a strengthening regimen.
Monkey-bars for adults offer opportunity for upper body strengthening, dexterity, and mobility. Pull-up bars provide a great place to do a deep stretch or strength-training through pull-ups. And for those who are still children at heart, there's plenty of options to add some fun to a workout here.
The newly surfaced track offers about a quarter-mile route of smooth walking or jogging. Folks who need a quick workout without heading out onto the trail, will appreciate the fitness circuit's accessibility while still enjoying the outdoors.
Whether your routine involves a hundred pull-ups and a 5K jog or you're working on improving endurance and balance with a gentle walk, the fitness options abound at the Dannelly Fitness Complex. You don't have to head out into the hills for a workout when you can stay nearby. Bring the kids, check out the improvements, enjoy a picnic, and definitely stretch those hamstrings.
