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In the heart of Bonner Springs, Kansas, Tatum Bartels is creating a wave of positive change.
As the Recreation Coordinator for Bonner Springs Parks, Recreation & Senior Center, Tatum’s dedication to health and wellness has transformed the city’s Fitness Court® into a hub for community connection and empowerment.
From College Athlete to Community Leader
Tatum’s journey in fitness began early, as she spent four years playing college volleyball. “Volleyball taught me a lot about strength, agility, and endurance, but also about resilience and how to push through challenges,” she shared. After college, she transitioned into weightlifting and functional fitness, developing a balanced routine focused on long-term health.
"For me, living an active lifestyle isn’t just about working out ‘to workout,’ it’s about creating a balanced routine that supports long-term health and well-being," Tatum explained. "It’s about setting small goals and celebrating those wins along the way. What I try to teach in my classes is that fitness isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. Whether you’re lifting weights, doing bodyweight exercises, or even just taking a walk, it’s about finding joy in movement and making it part of your daily life."
For Tatum, fitness is a lifelong journey, and she’s committed to helping others find joy in movement.
Activating the Fitness Court®
Since its installation in Center Park, the Fitness Court® has become a key part of Tatum’s programming. Every Thursday, she leads classes for participants aged 55 and older, tailoring workouts to meet their needs. Tatum also partnered with Bonner Springs High School to teach over 200 high school PE students about the Fitness Court®. She provided a detailed overview of the seven stations and guided the students through tailored workouts, introducing them to the value of functional fitness. Only a handful of students had used the Fitness Court before, making this an impactful introduction to its potential as a community asset for Bonner Springs high schoolers. “The Fitness Court is an amazing resource because it’s designed to be accessible for everyone,” she explained. “I love seeing people of all fitness levels embrace the workouts.”
Tatum plans to expand her offerings in the spring and summer, with classes open to anyone aged 14 and older. She’s also considering additional “Intro to the Fitness Court” sessions to help new participants feel confident using the equipment. “I want to inspire people to find their strength, whatever that looks like for them. We all have the potential to improve, no matter where we start.” Tatum’s efforts ensure the Fitness Court is a welcoming space for all.
The Fitness Court in Bonner Springs is located to maximize accessibility. Centrally positioned in downtown, it’s a 10-minute bike ride from four schools, adjacent to low-income senior housing, and connected to pedestrian paths. This thoughtful placement reflects the city’s commitment to creating inclusive, health-focused spaces.
Tatum believes the Fitness Court is about more than just physical activity.
“It’s a space that encourages connection, empowerment, and inclusivity,” she said. “It promotes functional fitness which are the movements involved in our day-to-day lives that allow us to move and feel better. The Fitness Court makes it possible for people to get a high-quality workout without paying for a gym membership or equipment. Getting active outdoors has a lot of mental health benefits. It encourages people to take care of their minds and bodies.”
By introducing outdoor workouts, Tatum has also highlighted the mental health benefits of exercise, helping residents care for both their minds and bodies.
Looking Ahead: Continued Activation With the Bonner Springs Community
The City of Bonner Springs has been instrumental in supporting Tatum’s vision. From the installation of the Fitness Court® to promoting the classes and events held there, there’s been a strong alignment between the city’s vision for creating spaces that encourage active living and Tatum’s goals for community health.
"One of the things that stands out is how the city has supported the idea of the Fitness Court as not just a fitness hub, but as a community space and newly established as 'Center Park,'" Tatum shared. Plans are already underway to enhance this space with additional amenities, including a splash pad, restrooms, a drinking fountain, and more. "I’m fortunate to work in an environment that values health and fitness," she added.
As Tatum continues to build relationships and inspire progress in Bonner Springs, her efforts exemplify how one passionate leader can elevate a community.
“In a smaller community like Bonner Springs, there’s a unique opportunity to build strong relationships with the people I teach,” she shared. “I’ve gotten to know many of the participants, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to watch them progress. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about seeing people embrace fitness. Helping others build the tools for healthier, happier lives is what keeps me excited to show up every day.”
Thanks to Tatum Bartels and the greater staff at Bonner Springs Parks, Recreation & Senior Center, the Fitness Court® has become a beacon of health and connection in Bonner Springs, proving that wellness can bring a community together in powerful ways.
