Getting in Shape in Hardeman County in 2026
Exercise is typically one of the first priorities to be pushed aside when life gets busy. However, exercising is one of the most important aspects of life, and one of the best gifts you can give to yourself, and to those around you. By exercising, not only will your body become healthier and stronger, but you will experience a more positive mood. Hardeman County offers several opportunities to get active, including locally owned gyms, public parks, and rural walking paths.
“Taking care of yourself begins with exercise. Implementing a daily routine will strengthen your body, stabilize your mind, and empower you to take control of your health,” shared Audrey Howell, who is the office manager and personal trainer at 1FIT Nation in Bolivar. “When your body and mind are strong, everything else in your life improves with it.”
In addition to 1 Fit Nation, Hardeman County offers two other gyms including Anytime Fitness in Bolivar and Adrenaline Fitness in Middleton.
“You don’t have to train like an athlete to get the benefits of exercise,” says Brittany Mayfield, owner of Anytime Fitness. “Even a brisk 20-30 minute walk, a short strength routine, or a class a few days a week can help your heart, protect your joints, support your mental health, and keep you able to do the things that you love as you get older.” Brittany says that the best workout is one you will actually do regularly. “Start small, stay consistent, and build from there.”
Bolivar’s City Gym includes six basketball goals and portable volleyball nets. The walking track is open from 7AM-3PM and basketball is available on weekdays from 3PM-5PM.
If working out at a gym is not an option for you, consider getting active at one of Hardeman County’s local parks. Take a stroll around Sand Beach Lake in Bolivar, read along the Storybook Trail at Pleasant Run Creek Park in Bolivar, play basketball at Frogtown Park in Bolivar, play tennis at Bolivar’s City Park, utilize the cardio equipment at the Blue Cross Healthy Place at Middleton’s city park, walk around Whiteville Lake, or walk the tracks in Hickory Valley or at Toone’s City Park.
“We have all heard how regular exercise improves your physical health and reduces your risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, but many don’t know that it improves our brain health by helping us sleep better, reducing depression, and even reducing risks for some types of dementia,” shared Bolivar General Hospital’s Andrea Henson, BSN-RN, CEN. “Light activity is better than NO activity, but always talk to your healthcare provider about what is safe for you. You can also visit heart.org/MoveMore for more information.”
Andrea also shared that Bolivar General Hospital recently brought the Cardiac Rehab Program to Hardeman County, which offers supervised exercise for those who have recently suffered from a myocardial infarction, had a coronary intervention, or undergone bypass surgery.
Did you know that you can play pickleball in Hardeman County? Pickleball is a popular hobby right now and is a great way to spend time with friends and get active. Big Hill Pond State Park in Pocahontas has an outdoor pickleball court and Bolivar’s Gym offers indoor pickleball play.
And for the days when driving to town to go to a gym or park isn’t an option, don’t let that be a reason to stay stagnant! Back roads weren’t just made for driving, they are a great opportunity to get moving. Just don’t forget to watch for deer!
Author Hannah Thompson
As the assistant director of the Bolivar‑Hardeman County Library, Hannah has the privilege of sharing her love of stories with the Hardeman County community every day. She is excited to do the same as a member of the Hatchie Press team. When she is not working, you’ll likely find Hannah reading in the company of her sweet feline children, Galinda and Galileo.
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