WARNER ROBINS -- Walkers, runners and cyclists who use Wellston Trail are getting seven exercise stations to enhance their fitness efforts, thanks to a group of up-and-coming leaders.

The exercise and stretching equipment is at the Corder Road entrance to the trail and is being provided by members of the 2011 Leadership Robins Region class, a leadership training course offered by the Robins Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“What really touched me about this project is that it really fills a need,” said Jennifer Sheffer, class member and a project coordinator. “We had a weekend retreat when the class began in January, and somebody brought up the idea of fitness stations. Everybody else just kind of went, ‘Yeah, that’s it.’ ’’

Sheffer said she knew the group was on to something when they observed Wellston Trail and saw people doing stretches using their cars and performing other improvised fitness moves.

When she talked to trail users and told them what the class was up to, she said they were ecstatic and couldn’t wait.

Sheffer said now she can’t wait to see the equipment in use.

On Saturday, the class was at the trail doing the bulk of the installation, but class member John Rood said that was only part of the story.

“We’re assembling it all now, but we’ve had months and months of preparation and planning,” he said. “Prior planning is what’s important so that things go well when you get out here to do it. Team captains have been responsible for various parts of the project, and on Friday we had a mock assembly to help things go smoothly today. We’re ahead of schedule, so it must be working.”

Rood said the class conducted fundraising events and sought material donations to fund the project. He said considering materials and the class members’ donated labor, the project probably is worth around $15,000.

The exercise equipment being installed includes a back extension station, weight lift, push-up stand, strength and stretch bars, a sit-up bench, hip twister and a pull-up bar.

The 20-member group felt the project clearly met the class requirement to work together to plan, manage and execute a project that makes a lasting impact on the Robins region but is not already being undertaken by the community.

Class organizers said it did that, plus helped the group learn valuable skills that will benefit the region for years.

“This class has done a fabulous job,” said Aura Lee Durham, senior vice president of the chamber and a class member herself in 2006. “They’ve covered all the aspects of the project by taking different roles to build something together, shown leadership and learned a lot about leadership and themselves along the way.”

Rood agreed the class has lasting benefits.

“It is a great program,” he said. “It does an amazing job of letting you in on what goes on in our community -- the services, businesses, local governments, Robins Air Force Base as well as the needs out there. At the same time, you’re learning how you can join with others to play a part.”

Rood said he was thankful for the class, and he and other members were grateful to all those who helped make the project possible through support and donations.

He said he and his classmates were especially thankful to their employers -- for him Parrish Construction and for Sheffer the city of Warner Robins -- who gave them the opportunity and allowed time off when needed.

Information about participation in the 2012 class is available by calling the chamber at 922-8585 or visiting its website at www. robinsregion.com.