A community forest in Maine. A pocket park in Colorado. A community park in Massachusetts. These sites are among the recipients of the 2024 L.L.Bean

Respondents to the Industry Report Survey from parks and Ys were the most likely to report that they had formed partnerships with nonprofit

Well-maintained, safe, and comfortable restrooms are an important amenity within your park, providing comfort and convenience for park visitors, as

Bobcat Company, a global equipment, 

Seminole High School, in Seminole, TX, has transformed its sports program with the installation of video scoreboards from Watchfire. The new

A joint position paper from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Council on Exercise states that nutrition and physical activity

More than three-quarters of respondents from health clubs, colleges and universities, Ys, and rec centers said they currently host fitness programs

Riverside Park in Coral Springs, Florida, has undergone a remarkable transformation, taking several old roller rinks and transforming them into a

The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) has released the first series of

Matrix Fitness, the world's fastest-growing commercial fitness brand, announced a new 3-year agreement with OMNIA Partners, the largest public and

Mecalac, a leading global designer, manufacturer and distributor of compact construction equipment,

Colorbiotics — a Sika Company known for its vibrant and long-lasting colors for mulch, rubber, rock, sand and concrete — is entering the 3D concrete

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) announced the appointment of John Lally as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. Lally, who currently

Matrix Fitness, the world's fastest-growing commercial fitness brand, announced a new integration with Upace, a leading member experience and

July is Park and Recreation Month! How are you celebrating? The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has been celebrating Park and

The top five planned additions for park respondents to the 2024 Industry Report survey were splash play areas, dog parks, fitness trails and outdoor

Survey Methodology This report is based on a survey conducted for Recreation Management by Stamats Inc., an independent

A greater understanding of the multiple positive outcomes resulting from play and from interaction among children and adults with different physical

Most of us are drawn to water, whether we want to immerse ourselves in it or simply engage with it from dry land or boats. And for children, water

High utility bills, difficult terrain, vulnerable building materials, lack of flexibility…all of these are reasons recreational organizations turn to

Whether it’s the soothing lull of waves, the exhilarating rush of a water slide or the pure joy of splashing around, humans have an undeniable

 With a mission to bring the game of squash to all, along with its health and social benefits, a new squash club in New York City has opened on

Highly Quotable“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.”— John MuirAmerican

Here in Illinois, on this first day of summer, we’re in the middle of a heat wave, stretching from the Midwest all the way through New England, and

Concrete PlansCXT® manufactures precast concrete restrooms and buildings for parks nationwide. Our structures are manufactured with high-strength

Customize Your Favorite AmenitySUITMATE® Select allows you to customize the exterior of your SUITMATE Swimsuit Water Extractor. Whether you want your

National Park Trust and the National Park Service (NPS) have announced the successful acquisition of a 128-acre parcel of land along the Appalachian

Almost all U.S. adults (91 percent) have a preferred strategy or activity that helps manage stress, according to the latest National Recreation and

With more than three decades in the health and fitness industry, Cedric X. Bryant, Ph.D., FACSM, assumed his new role July 1 as chief executive

SportsArt, the leader in sustainable fitness and green solutions for over 40 years, is featured in Toronto, Ontario’s York University Tait

Surf Park Central is excited to announce the launch of its annual Consumer Trends Survey. As part of the mission to connect, educate, and support the

Hilltip now offers its line of 

Rails to Trails Conservancy’s analysis of the latest round of U.S. Department of Transportation RAISE Grants says there is widespread demand for

While just over half (52.2%) of all respondents to the 2024 Industry Report survey said they currently have walking and hiking trails, around three-

Kay Park RecreationKay Park Recreation is celebrating 70 years of making places people friendly! Since 1954, Kay Park has been providing picnic

SHAPE America – Society of Health and Physical Educators and Booster, a company that offers a variety of school fundraising services, announced a new

This July, the

John Deere has extended its allied distribution agreement with 

In a recent survey by Bradley Company, nearly 70% of Americans reported having a particularly unpleasant experience in a public restroom due to the

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) announced a partnership with TRX through the introduction of two online courses designed to empower exercise

Bradley Company has broadened its popular Euro Style Restroom Partition Collection

The Health & Fitness Association (HFA) commended the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee for its proactive steps in considering H.R. 4818, the “

Just over half (54%) of children ages 6 to 17 in the U.S. played on a sports team or took lessons in 2022, down from 58% in 2017, according to

Some 57.1% of respondents to the 2024 Industry Report Survey said they currently host youth sports programs at their facilities, while 46% say their

By John DzarnowskiComprehensive master planning is the cornerstone of developing and revitalizing community spaces. Yet, this process has

Universal Athletic Club in Lancaster, Penn., is no ordinary fitness club. Owner Rick Casselbury takes attention to service seriously, as well as

Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) announced the opening of the third round of its rural implementation grant opportunity to help rural communities

A leader in innovation and digital solutions, Bobcat Company introduces its newest technological

California Sports Surfaces (CSS) has announced a new partnership with the Pickleball

IndigoFitness, known for their bespoke club designs, has placed a marker in the sand for recovery - developing a number of recovery modules that

The Philadelphia Eagles announced that Lincoln Financial Field has been certified as a LEED Platinum building for its commitment to operational

With the U.S. Olympic swim trials in progress and medal hopefuls grabbing the attention of young children who look to follow in their footsteps, the

The talent and abilities of the world’s best athletes aren’t all that will be on display during the upcoming 2024 Olympic Trials. 

The year 2023 saw a record 175.8 million participants in outdoor recreation, representing 57.3% of the U.S. population, according to the 2024 Outdoor

After a major impact on attendance and usage of park facilities in the early phase of the pandemic in 2020, park respondents have seen growing usage

The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), the nation’s leading coalition of outdoor recreation trade associations, is proud to announce a

A new report released today by the Aspen Institute’s Project Play and Hurst Community initiatives identified the immense value of physical activity

Baltimore voters are seeking balanced transportation spending, prioritizing connectivity and accessible ways to safely walk and bike, according to a

Ecore, a

Miracle® Recreation, a pioneer in manufacturing thrilling playgrounds for nearly a century, and

At its June 3 meeting, the Health & Fitness Association board of directors elected

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has released its annual drowning and submersion report. Focused on deaths and injuries for

A majority of aquatic respondents to the Industry Report survey (79.9%) said they currently offer learn-to-swim programs for children. And nearly six

The National Park Service announced a more than $15 million investment from President Biden's Investing in America agenda to build climate resilience

The National Forest System Trail Stewardship Partnership Funding Program (NFSTS or Trail Partners grant program) awarded a total of $215,000 to

The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) has released the 2024 State of the Industry Report, highlighting

The International Council on Active Aging® (ICAA) is excited to unveil a transformative report from its recent think tank event, presenting a

Nearly all U.S. adults (92 percent) agree it is important for youth to participate in group activities, according to the latest National Recreation

Bobcat Company, a global equipment, 

New to its line-up of P-Tier machines, John Deere debuted five

Eleiko, a leader in strength equipment, announced the release of a patent-pending Competition Collar. This innovative collar is the first to receive

Ignite Attachments, a breakthrough manufacturer of compact equipment attachments, adds to its growing

The U.S. youth camp industry contributes $70 billion to the national economy, accounting for the total value of the camp industry's production and

More than seven out of 10 (70.3%) respondents to the Industry Report survey representing camp facilities, including youth camps, as well as RV parks

 Despite ongoing struggles with budgets, aging facilities, staff shortages and the still-receding impact of the coronavirus pandemic, recreation

In these pages, we’ll take a closer look at the answers provided by survey respondents whose facilities include aquatic elements. This includes any

In the next few pages, we’ll examine how the answers of respondents from parks and recreation agencies stack up. This includes parks departments,

In the next few pages, we’ll examine the answers to the Industry Report survey from respondents working for colleges and universities, who made up 13

In this section of the report, we’ll examine the survey responses from schools and school districts. Nearly half of respondents from schools

In these pages, we’ll examine the responses to the Industry Report survey from health club respondents. Making up 5% of the survey population in 2024

This final section of the Industry Report will examine the responses of those working for YMCAs, YWCAs, JCCs and Boys & Girls Clubs—those

The Departments of the Interior and Agriculture announced a proposed investment of $2.8 billion in fiscal year 2025 through the 

The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) has released a pivotal report,

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) announced a new partnership with the United States Tennis Association (USTA), the national

The Outdoor Foundation, the philanthropic arm of

In celebration of Great Outdoors Month and National Trails Day on June 1, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced the designation of four new

Bjelin has launched a carefully curated Contrast Collection that celebrates the distinct characteristics of the renowned Spačva oak. The new, vibrant

Werk-Brau introduces the FX26 Forestry Mulcher, a rugged, durable, well-balanced forestry mulcher for excavators from 8,000 to 16,000 pounds. This

The City of Henderson announced the introduction of a new state-of-the-art indoor sports complex coming to West Henderson, which has been presented

Vision Fitness, a provider of durable and intuitive fitness equipment, launched a full-commercial line of strength equipment at the IHRSA tradeshow

KemperSports, a leading golf, sports, entertainment and hospitality company, has been selected by the

“I generally find that comparison is the fast track to unhappiness. No one ever compares themselves to someone else and comes out even. Nine

Community and private recreation and sports centers were represented by 12% of the respondents to the Industry Report survey, with 10.3% of all

Expanding on our State of the Industry Report, this article will cover the trends revealed by responses to the Industry Report survey from

Trust for Public Land announced that Washington, D.C., was rated the nation’s best big-city park system by the 2024 ParkScore index. The ParkScore

More than two-thirds of respondents to the Industry Report survey in 2024 said they had plans for construction at their facilities over the next

ASLA has released the results of its

On the heels of the 

Bobcat Company, a global equipment, innovation and worksite solutions brand, has enhanced two of its

To further strengthen its capabilities as a concept-to-completion provider, 

In celebration of 10 years of industry leadership, the Global Wellness Institute proudly unveils the fourth edition of the "Guide to Hydrothermal Spa

The Every Child a Swimmer Program, a division of the International Swimming Hall of Fame, provides low to no-cost scholarships to swim schools to

Paddock Pool Equipment Company (“Paddock”), one of the world’s leading manufacturer of commercial swimming pool equipment announced today the

IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, unveiled two exceptional awards events designed to inspire, recognize, and celebrate

The 55,294 health club and studio locations in the U.S. have a $22.4 billion economic impact on the country’s economy, according to new data analysis

While more than half (50.5%) of all respondents to the 2024 Industry Report survey said they had a fitness center at their facilities, respondents

The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) presented its 2024 Legends Awards, as well as Outdoor Recreation Leadership and Industry Awards, at ORR’s

American Hiking Society is proud to announce the 2024 National Trails Day® micro-grant program selectees. The grant is designed to reduce barriers

The American Camp Association (ACA) is pleased to announce that over 20 camps across the United States will join Phase 2 of the 

The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is excited to announce the recipients of this year’s NRPA Innovation Awards,

Pentair Pool, a leading global provider of smart, sustainable pool solutions today announced that it has committed as a partner of the 2026 Special

Ecore

Keswick Vineyards in Keswick, Virginia with views of the Southwest Mountains, had a nine-hole eco-

Ecore

The American Sports Builders Association (ASBA), the national organization for builders, designers and suppliers of materials for sports fields,

Dixie Chopper introduces a new zero-turn series, the Falcon™ HPX. The Falcon™ HPX is an entry-level commercial zero-turn mower designed for the

State, local and tribal governments can apply for up to $3 million in grant funding available through the Pool Safely Grant Program, through the U.S

Nearly six out of 10 (59.1%) respondents to the 2024 Industry Report survey whose facilities include aquatics currently provide water safety programs

The National League of Cities has selected four cities to participate in a new technical assistance initiative called

Rails to Trails Conservancy, the nation’s largest trails, walking and biking advocacy organization, marked five years of progress toward completing

The 55,294 health club and studio locations in the United States have a $22.4 billion economic impact on the country’s economy, according to new data

KABOOM! announced The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County,

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry, celebrates a significant

The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA), in partnership with the

SportsArt, the leader in sustainable fitness solutions for over 40 years, is thrilled to announce that Cleveland State University is the grand prize

From the Americas to Europe, from the Middle East to Asia, WhiteWater is pleased to announce over 60 projects anticipated to open this year across

SiteOne Landscape Supply is expanding its turf maintenance and pest management product offerings with FMC Corporation’s newest insecticide, 

Werk-Brau introduces their redesigned High Performance Loader Buckets which have an enhanced performance profile. Curved side walls, a beveled design

Hilltip has introduced the IceStriker™ 8000 CM Combi Spreader, featuring an industry-leading capacity of

A new report from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) reveals the importance of social connection through older adult programming in

In the past 10 years, the number of respondents to the Industry Report survey who offer programming for active older adults has increased from 37.4%

JLG Architects In all sports facilities, fans and large events are driving multipurpose design that’s built to be a strong community asset,

As a landscape architect, Kaia Nesbitt is always prepared to discuss the latest developments in park design. If asked about trends, though, she sees

This year marked a milestone event in world history—the four-year anniversary date (March 11, 2024) of the World Health Organization first declaring

Many community swimming pools of old are continuing their evolution into aquatic parks, incorporating a range of pool types and amenities including

It’s hard to beat swimming in the great outdoors on a beautiful day, but in cold-weather climates the season barely lasts three months. And even in

There are a lot of aging pools out there, many of which are still in service but are just barely limping along. And while communities overwhelmingly

The condition of a business’ restrooms really does matter—to patrons as well as the businesses that provide them. Think of the times when you

A “partnership,” per the Miriam-Webster dictionary, is “the state of being a partner: a relationship involving close cooperation between parties

Highly Quotable“I’ve used my experience from playing sports in almost every aspect of my life. Playing soccer is where I

Do you ever wish for a highly accurate crystal ball? One that could let you see how you’ll feel about the decisions you’re making, say, 25 years from

From community aquatic centers to natatoriums and beyond, aquatic facilities are increasingly being planned to meet a wide variety of community wants

Ninja TrainingIntroducing G2N® Air Obstacles, providing a softer, more fun way for your ninjas to train. The only thing they have to fear is bruising

Streamline OperationsCivicPlus® Recreation Management software is the ultimate solution for streamlining recreational operations. Seamlessly manage

Together Outdoors, an initiative of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, announced the awardees of its Inclusive Micro-Grant Program grants totaling $70,

USA Swimming, the national governing body for the sport of swimming in the United States, announced the four cities that will host this year’s

The ASLA Fund, a 501(c)(3) organization, has announced a new grant to the University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center (EFC) in the School of

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry, is pleased to announce that

Almost all U.S. adults (93 percent) are likely to seek out a new skill or hobby — particularly cooking, fitness and health, and arts and crafts —

Cyclone Lighting (www.cyclonelighting.com), Cyclone Lighting (

Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) announced that CEO, Benjamin Bachman of Gerflor USA was named an Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2024 Midwest Award finalist

Human performance solutions innovator PLAE is deepening its bench by partnering with industry veteran Tyler Hobson. The owner of Iron Core

The American Council on Exercise 

While it’s been four years since the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted lives, one behavior has left a lasting impression:  handwashing. That’s based

Wash UpAvailable in satin stainless steel and a palette of five modern finishes, the stunning Elvari Washroom Accessories collection provides more

It’s May, which means it’s time for National Water Safety Month, an annual awareness campaign coordinated by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, the

More than six out of 10 (61.7%) of all respondents to the Aquatic Trends Survey said their facilities currently provide water safety training

Product sales in the sporting goods, fitness, and related recreation markets grew 4.2% last year according to the 

The nationwide celebration of National Trails Day® on Saturday June 1, 2024 will bring together people from across the country, Puerto Rico, and

Trust for Public Land [TPL] is proud to announce the awarding of over $4.5 million to five cities that will advance ambitious urban and community

California Sports Surfaces (CSS) announced the launch of its new Contractor ProProgram,

WAVE Drowning Prevention Systems is proud to announce its life-saving technology is now being used by thousands of swimmers in more than 25 states

Werk-Brau has partnered with Valley Tool Manufacturing to provide Werk-Brau branded BrushHound mulchers, brush shredders, and flail mowers, and

Mayor London Breed and the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department recently unveiled a unique chapter in the history of City Hall’s United

Active Wellness, a leading fitness design and management services company, also known as The Healthy Life Company®, proudly announces its 10th