FEBRUARY 2012
FEATURES

A Guide to Aquatic Centers
In this annual closeup look at aquatic facilities, we dive in to the latest design and programming trends. We also take a look at the most recent updates to regulations that govern the operations of aquatic facilities, including ADA guidelines and the Virginia Graeme Baker Act.
An Alphabetical Stroll Through the Latest Trends
Wellness Programming for Aquatic Facilities
What Aquatic Facility Managers Need to Know About ADA, VGB and More
Easy Steps to Introduce Action Sports to Your Community
Action sports—from skateboarding to BMX-biking and more—have been increasingly adopted across the country. Building a park to accommodate action sports athletes is a smart move.
Environmental & Fiscal Responsibility Team Up in Synthetic Turf
Synthetic turf fields have seen a rise in popularity over the past decade. At the same time, synthetic turf fields are beginning to need replacing. Growing environmental awareness and fiscal responsibility combine to make recycling a smart option.
Formula for Fitness Facilities
Careful design and proper ongoing practices are key to ensure your fitness facility is in top condition.
Drilling Down
In the issue, our expert columnist takes a look at streamlining the path to a graduate assistantship in recreation. In this Web-exclusive companion to that story, we provide an overview of the skills required to move ahead in such a career.
A Playground Comes to Tucson
A little more than a year has passed since Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was critically injured by a gunshot wound to the head. Also in attendance at the meeting with constituents was 9-year-old Christina Taylor-Green, who was shot and killed as she stood in line to meet Giffords. Now, Tucson children have a new place to play, and to honor Christina.
Shortcut: Defining a Standard for Graduate Assistants
Graduate assistantships offer one step toward a career in recreation and sport. Here, our experts present a persuasive argument for more standardization to help students get ahead.
A Seasoned Approach to Playground Safety
Keeping Kids Safe in Every Season
Loose-fill surfacing, especially wood mulch, is very popular, largely due to its lower initial cost. But if you're employing such a solution at your playground, you need to be aware of the impact winter's deep freeze can have on safety.
Creative Outlets
West Flamingo Center for Active Adults in Las Vegas
Searching for a way to bring color to the lives of seniors in this facility, one clever program director turned to a creative solution.
Top Training
Total Athlete Indoor Training Center in Triadelphia, West Virginia
A unique building solution allows this facility to offer sports training year-round.