SALS Oak Hill: A Community Space Supporting Physical Activity and Health
The Southern Appalachian Labor School (SALS) in Oak Hill is one of Active SWV’s longest running Active Place. SALS is a reliable and welcoming location for free physical activity programs that support community health. Through partnerships like this, Active SWV is able to bring consistent, accessible fitness opportunities to people where they live.
A Consistent Place for Free Fitness
Each week, Community Captain Sarah leads High Fitness at SALS Oak Hill on Tuesdays at 9 AM. High Fitness is a simple but effective program that combines easy-to-follow aerobic movements with interval training, offering both a cardiovascular workout and strength-building benefits. Classes are designed for all levels of ability, and participants are encouraged to move at their own pace.
In addition to weekly classes, pop-up REFIT sessions are also offered at SALS. REFIT focuses on dance-based cardio and positive movement—another fun and approachable way for community members to be active. Together, these programs give people options to try different styles of fitness and find something that fits their needs and interests.
Why Active Places Matter
Active Places is a cornerstone of Active SWV’s mission to make physical activity accessible to everyone. Not every community has a recreation center or gym, so existing local facilities—like community centers, schools, and churches—become key spaces for group exercise and wellness programs.
By partnering with organizations like SALS, Active SWV helps transform community spaces into reliable fitness hubs. These locations provide a safe, familiar environment where participants can build healthy habits, socialize, and gain confidence in physical activity. Regular movement can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and increase overall quality of life—benefits that reach far beyond the walls of any single fitness class.
Building Health Through Community Partnerships
SALS Oak Hill demonstrates how collaboration can strengthen community wellness. SALS’s longstanding commitment to education and outreach aligns naturally with Active SWV’s focus on promoting health through physical activity. By working together, both organizations are helping residents find new ways to stay active and engaged.
Community Captain Sarah plays a key role in this effort. As a volunteer leader, she provides consistent programming, encouragement, and expertise. Her leadership ensures that participants feel supported no matter their fitness level or experience.
Having local, dependable spaces like SALS in Oak Hill ensures that physical activity remains a regular part of life in southern West Virginia communities. Through partnerships, leadership, and shared resources, Active SWV and SALS continue to prove that access to health and movement can and should exist close to home.
