FitRec Expands Community Impact with Engaging Exergaming for Kids and Adults

Adult woman and kid play indoor ball gameMoraine Valley Community College’s FitRec is not just a fitness facility for students—it serves the broader local community as well. This mission is reflected in its programming, including the development of KidRec, which was launched in 2016 to meet the needs of both FitRec families and the surrounding community. Initially designed as a space for childcare and youth programming, KidRec is now helping to expand FitRec’s outreach to adult members through interactive fitness, contributing to a healthier community overall. 

KidRec: A Space for Youth Engagement and Fun 

The 9,000-square-foot KidRec was designed for children ages 3 months to 13 years. FitRec provides not only drop-off childcare services at KidRec, but also a variety of programs aimed at keeping kids active and engaged. These include summer camps, after-school sports, dance classes, and even birthday party rentals. By offering these services, FitRec ensures that families in the community have a safe, fun, and active space for their children. 

Two older women play iDance gameExergaming: Technology Meets Fitness for All Ages 

At the heart of KidRec’s programming are the X-Rooms, a space dedicated to exergaming—a combination of exercise and video games. Partnering with Exergame Fitness, FitRec has introduced children to interactive games like T-Wall®, iWall, iDance, and Fit Interactive 3-Kick, which promote physical activity through gaming. This innovative approach encourages kids to move, offering them a fun and modern way to stay fit while catering to their interest in gaming technology. 

Expanding Exergaming to Adult Fitness Programs 

While originally focused on children, FitRec has also begun to expand the use of the X-Rooms to adult members of the community. The decision to reintroduce X-Rooms into the adult fitness schedule in Fall 2024 reflects FitRec’s commitment to serving all age groups. The weekly X-Rooms fitness class, held during peak hours, has attracted a growing number of adult participants, especially seniors. With an average attendance of 12-16 participants, primarily women aged 65 and older, this class offers a unique alternative to traditional forms of exercise like yoga or strength training. The interactive nature of exergaming makes it an appealing option for older adults, as it combines physical activity with cognitive engagement. 

A Community-Centered Approach to Health and Wellness 

 Exergaming aligns with FitRec’s broader mission to serve the local community. By offering innovative fitness solutions like the X-Rooms for adults, FitRec ensures that more community members can engage in healthy activities, regardless of age. The success of the X-Rooms for both kids and adults demonstrates its role in promoting a healthier, more connected community. 

Professional headshot of woman smiling for cameraAbout the author:  Jana Terborg brings over 13 years of experience in campus recreation to her role as Senior Assistant Director of Programs for CENTERS @ Moraine Valley Community College. In this position, she oversees all programming for FitRec, a vital hub for both campus and community recreation, managing fitness floor operations, personal training services, and developing engaging group fitness programs for all ages. Passionate about event planning and fundraising for good causes, Jana has organized successful events such as the Halloween 5K, benefiting the Moraine Valley Foundation, and Cycle for a Cause, supporting Bike MS and The MS Society.