From the Editor's Desk

Thank Goodness for Outside

Many of the facilities we turn to for recreation and fitness—health clubs, campus rec centers, senior centers and more—are temporarily closed as the human race tries to flatten the curve and get ahead of transmission of COVID-19. But, there are still plenty of outdoor opportunities for fitness and recreation available to the American public.

 

Places of Action, Respite & Renewal

Whether you're operating a rustic park or a downtown square, a sports park with multiple ballfields or a destination playground, there are many decisions to make when it comes to designing and outfitting outdoor spaces.

Digital Edition

April 2020

Features

Guid to playgroundsA Guide to Playgrounds & Park Furnishings

Our annual Guide to Playgrounds and Park Furnishings is chock full of information to help facility owners plan, design and outfit their parks and play sites, from pocket park planning to furnishings that provide comfort and playgrounds that inspire adventure.

Finding Space for Parks

In a perfect world, every neighborhood would have a park, but due to lack of space and budgetary challenges, this is simply not feasible. Pocket parks can present a viable alternative.

 

Playgrounds That Pop

When you want to exceed expectations and create a playground with a huge "wow" factor, think outside the traditional post-and-platform structure, take heed of the words of experienced playground designers, and create a destination for play.

 

Everything In Its Place

When you stroll through a park, you might not think much about the benches, picnic tables and receptacles you pass, but actually, a lot of thought can go into choosing those furnishings.


Go, Ninja Warriors, Go!

From ninja-inspired fitness to classic climbing and beyond, adventure is easy to find for those who want to test their limits. From climbing walls to skateparks, zip lines, ninja courses and beyond, there's plenty of ways to raise the bar.

 

What's Under Foot?

The programs you offer will largely determine the best type of surface for your sports or fitness facility. Find out more about the ins and outs of indoor sports and fitness surfaces to ensure you make the best choice.

 

Managing Aquatic Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your aquatic facility running at peak efficiency. Learn more about the steps you should take to keep your aquatics in prime condition.

 

Feed the People

From basic concession operations to food truck festivals, parks, sports and recreation facilities have come up with plenty of ways to attract patrons with tasty treats.

Web Exclusives

Grow a Grassroots Skating Program

Last July, Learn to Skate USA reported record-breaking membership numbers. The program give members access to a wide range of tools and helps facilities across the United States enhance grassroots programming.

 

Bad Weather, Good Decisions

When there’s lightning, it’s essential to head for safety. The Sports Turf Managers Association is made up of field managers at the forefront of safety, and when it comes to bad weather, they are increasingly using predictive technology to make good decisions.

inPerspective

SPORTS FIELDS: Make It Safer

When the safety of your athletes is a top concern, it’s crucial to understand how the field beneath their feet can have an impact. Learn more about how innovations in synthetic turf can contribute to safety.

inPractice

SPLASH PLAY: Splash Into Adventure

When the Fort Worth Zoo was looking for an amenity that would attract more visitors and keep them hanging around on hot days, it turned to a creative splash play area.