Putnam County R-I Schools Logo

Free Fitness Opportunities at PC

January 09, 2013

     It is the time of year when many people resolve to lose extra weight or get into better physical shape.  The Putnam County R-I school facilities provide free opportunities for all residents to get some physical activity.

            The halls of the school are open for walkers early weekday mornings and again after school into the evening.  The west entrance of the high school (Superintendent's office entrance) opens at 5 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m. on weekdays.   Walking in the school is never boring as the halls in all three buildings are decorated with student work, posters announcing upcoming events, and pictures. 

            Another inside exercise opportunity is the Fitness Center, located on the east side of the high school.  The fitness center contains treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, free weights, and a variety of weight machines designed to build strength and tone every area of the body.  Entry to the fitness center is gained through the use of an electronic key card, available for purchase in the Superintendent's office for a nominal $5 fee.  A keypad was used in the past to gain entry into the fitness center, but school administration determined the key card would provide better security.  The fitness center is open to patrons 24/7 except when students are attending school.  (The school day is 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)      

     When the weather permits, the new all-weather track, and the prairie trail offer walkers and runners other options for exercise.  The new track, opened in September, provides a premium walking surface.  There are a few rules regarding the new track, including no pets or wheeled vehicles.  Rules are outlined on the entrance gate.  The prairie trail is a six-tenths of a mile rock and cement trail that winds through the softball complex and practice football field on the south side of school property.  Trail walkers enjoy the scenery as well as the incline of a couple of small hills. Both the track and trail are lit from 5 a.m. to dawn and again from dusk to 9 p.m.

                 The facilities are open as much as possible for patrons to use and enjoy. 

Any questions regarding facility use should be directed to the Superintendent's office at  660-947-3361, ext. 301.