25 Trends in 25 Years

Some of the Big Trends of the Past Quarter-Century
We’re celebrating our 25th anniversary by looking back at some of the top trends of the past 25 years. A lot has changed in managed sports, recreation and fitness facilities, from new programming ideas and equipment innovations to broader changes like a move toward greater inclusion and sustainability. 

Play Every Way

Intergenerational, Inclusive & Adventurous Play Lead the Most Recent Developments in Playgrounds
From inclusion and adventure play to theming and active play, we examine the biggest trends driving playground design today.

Diversify Your Pool

Pool & Deck Equipment for Recreation, Competition & More
The ability to add programs to swimming pools can be vastly enhanced by adding a variety of equipment to the deck or water. From enhancing accessibility and recreational value to enabling competitive events, instructional programming and more, attention to the pool deck and equipment can make your pool more successful.

Adaptable Spaces 

Outfit Your Gym for Flexibility
Whether they’re in schools or park district recreation centers, gymnasiums often must flex to meet the needs of a varied program lineup. Here are some ideas on the best ways to outfit your gym space.

Tech-Enabled

Supporting Operations With Technology Solutions
Technology is increasingly simplifying the job for managers of recreation, sports, fitness and aquatic facilities. Here are some of the ways you can rely on tech to have your back when it comes to smoother operations.

inPERSPECTIVE / LIGHTING: Innovations in Commercial Solar Lighting

Creative breakthroughs in design and manufacturing have led to new innovations in solar lighting, helping you bring light to parks and other spaces. 

inPRACTICE / BUILDING A LEGACY: Petersburg High School, Petersburg, Va.

Sound upgrades are just one part of a legacy being built to support Petersburg High School’s athletes.

inSERVICE: Adult Swim: U.S. Masters Swimming

U.S. Masters Swimming is the go-to association for adult swimmers across the country to find training, clubs, connection and more.

Fitness Floors Reborn

Recently, old gym flooring was transformed into safe, durable playground surfacing in Los Angeles. Talk about reusing and recycling!

A Blast From the Past

Some of the top trends highlighted in our cover story this month come to the fore in past winners of our now-retired Innovative Architecture & Design Awards. 

Time Marches On

As we celebrate the past 25 years, we also wonder what lies ahead.

Waterpark & Splash Play Products

Enclosures & Building Structures