From the Editor's Desk
Reelin' in the Years
Despite the vastness of the challenges that seem to keep stacking up ahead of us, I have a lot of faith in you, readers.
New Year, New Opportunities
The year 2020 was not a kind one for a huge number of industries and people, and aquatics were among those that felt the pain.
Features
Aquatic Trends Report
Just Keep Swimming
The 2021 Aquatic Trends Report
In our third annual Aquatic Trends Report, we examine the results of our survey of hundreds of aquatic professionals to uncover the latest trends in their facilities, covering everything from equipment and programming to budgets and challenges, as well as the impact of COVID-19.
Field Goals
When it comes to creating effective sports fields for players of all ages, there are many factors to take into account. From turf and lighting choices to seating and other amenities, ensuring the safety and comfort of players and spectators is key.
Raise the Woof!
Dog parks have been among the fastest-growing amenities in parks for the past decade or more, and the pandemic has only further emphasized that people need an outdoor place to take their pets (and themselves) for exercise and socialization. But setting up a dog park isn’t as simple as fencing off an area and letting the pooches play.
The Fitness Challenge
Like many businesses, fitness facilities have struggled to stay afloat amidst the rolling closures of the coronavirus pandemic. Staying competitive is more important than ever, which means knowing the latest trends is crucial.
Web Exclusives
Champion Results
The University of Tennessee’s Thompson-Boling Assembly Center has been a community landmark and gathering space since 1987. Since 2008, nearly $40 million in upgrades and improvements have improved the facility for everyone.
How to Reassure Clients It's Safe to Return to the Gym
The impact of the global pandemic continues to be felt around the world, and the fitness sector has faced vast challenges. Here are three ways to reassure existing and new members that it’s safe to come back to the gym for a workout.
inPerspective
RESTROOMS: A Better Future
In a time when everyone’s focused on disease prevention and safety, park restrooms should be designed to protect patrons health and well-being.
PARK PROGRAMMING: Wi-Fi-Enabled Parks
With so many folks carrying smart phones, you can help them engage in more outdoor recreation by providing Wi-Fi-enabled programming at your parks.
inPractice
PARKS & RECREATION: Pandemic? Hunt Monsters!
The pandemic might have put a stop to a lot of programming for large groups of people, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. This creative program in Fountain Valley gave kids a chance to get outdoors and hunt monsters while maintaining social distancing.
inService
NIRSA's Ongoing Mission: 70-Plus Years in the Making
NIRSA began as the National Intramural Association in 1950 when Founder Dr. William Wasson, recognizing a need for knowledge and shared community within the profession, convened a meeting of 20 representatives from 11 Historically Black Colleges and Universities in New Orleans, the first conference for the organization.