Bespoke wooden play structure

Playgrounds are an essential part of childhood, providing children with opportunities for physical activity, socialisation, and creative play. The type of equipment used in playgrounds plays a significant role in determining the quality of the play experience. Two common types of playground equipment are metal and wooden equipment. In this blog post, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both types.

Metal Playground Equipment

Advantages of Metal Playground Equipment:

  1. Durability: Metal playground equipment is generally more durable than wooden equipment. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, without warping or deteriorating.
  2. Low Maintenance: Metal equipment is easy to maintain, and there is no need to worry about rotting, splintering, or other issues commonly associated with wooden playground equipment. Additionally, metal equipment is easy to clean, and it does not require staining or painting.
  3. Wide Range of Designs: Metal equipment is available in a wide range of designs, styles, sizes, and colours, allowing playground designers to create unique play areas that are visually appealing and engaging. The nature of steel means there are less limitations to form and scale. Curves are a lot easier to create in steel; this allows more possibilities in design. Paint also lasts longer of metal playground equipment. This mean that metal playground equipment can look newer for longer and can be repainted if needed.
  4. Safe: Metal equipment is generally safe when installed and used correctly. Many metal structures are designed to meet or exceed safety standards, including EN 1176 and ASTM International’s F1487 Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment for Public Use.

Disadvantages of Metal Playground Equipment:

  1. Hot to the Touch: In hot weather, metal playground equipment can become hot to the touch, potentially causing burns or discomfort to children. In cold weather it’s very cold to touch making it less appealing to use.
  2. It call feel sterile, clinical and unnatural. This might be good for parents but less so for children.
  3. Limited Cushioning: Metal equipment does not provide much cushioning or shock absorption in the event of a fall, which can increase the risk of injury.
  4. Steel playground equipment is generally more expensive than wooden playground equipment.

metal playground equipment

Wooden Playground Equipment

Advantages of Wooden Playground Equipment:

  1. Natural Aesthetic: Wooden playground equipment has a natural look and feel that blends well with outdoor environments, making it a popular choice for nature-themed playgrounds. Wooden equipment blends into a natural environment well making it look less intrusive in sensitive areas.
  2. Absorbs Shock: Wood provides some shock absorption in the event of a fall, potentially reducing the risk of injury.
  3. Sustainable: Wooden playground equipment can be made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo or FSC-certified wood, making it an eco-friendly option.
  4. Nicer to touch and hold. This makes using the playground equipment more appealing in all weather conditions.

Disadvantages of Wooden Playground Equipment:

  1. Maintenance: Wooden equipment requires regular maintenance to prevent rotting, splintering, and other forms of deterioration. Additionally, it must be treated with sealants or stains to prevent damage from exposure to the elements.
  2. Susceptible to Pests: Wooden playground equipment can be susceptible to pests, such as termites, which can weaken the structure over time.
  3. Limited Design Options: Wooden playground equipment is limited in terms of design options, as it is not as malleable or versatile as metal.
  4. Safety Concerns: Wooden equipment can pose safety concerns if it is not maintained properly or installed correctly. Good maintenance can be expensive and can be unaffordable.

wooden playground equipment

Conclusion:

Both metal and wooden playground equipment have advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the choice between the two types of equipment will depend on factors such as the playground’s design, location, and maintenance requirements. This is why here at PlayEquip, we are now using a combination of steel and wood to create the ultimate playground equipment. We use metal for areas of playground equipment that are prone to rot, such as ground connections (where we use steel shoes on wooden playground equipment) and sub-frames and timber in areas that are more likely to be touched and held. You can see from some of our bespoke playgrounds just how this is done very successfully.

bespoke school playgrounds

To ensure the safety of children, it is essential to install equipment that meets or exceeds safety standards and to provide appropriate supervision during playtime. Regardless of the type of equipment used, a well-designed playground can provide children with a safe and enjoyable environment for physical activity, socialisation, and creative play.

Bespoke metal play structure

Playgrounds are not just fun for kids; studies show that they also have a significant positive impact on mental health. Playing on a playground equipment can be therapeutic, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote socialisation. Whether it’s swinging on the monkey bars, sliding down the slide, or playing a game of tag, there are many positive effects for mental health that a playground can bring. The more we learn and understand about phycology, the more we under understanding and appreciated the importance of our public space and what benefits the bring to our society. This is especially important in an urban environment. In this blog, we will explore some of the ways in which playgrounds can benefit mental health. Some of them not so expected.

  1. Playgrounds Promote Exercise and Physical ActivityCalisthenics outdoor gym equipment

One of the most obvious benefits of playgrounds is that they promote exercise and physical activity. Exercise is well known for its positive effects on mental health. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and increase self-esteem. Playgrounds provide an opportunity for children and adults to get moving and enjoy physical activity in a fun and engaging way. Improved physical health then leads directly to improved mental health.

  1. Playgrounds Encourage Socialisation and Positive Interaction

Playgrounds are a great place for children and adults to meet new people and make friends. As they are public spaces, they offer a rare opportunity for interaction between different demographics of both socioeconomic status and religion.   Socialisation is essential for mental health and well-being. Socialising can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and provide a sense of belonging. Playgrounds offer a unique opportunity for people to interact and build relationships in a non-threatening and enjoyable environment. This is why a well-designed playground is extremely important.

  1. Playgrounds Offer a Safe and Positive Outlet for Stress Relief

Playing on playground equipment can be a great way to relieve stress and tension. The physical activity of running, jumping, and climbing can help release tension in the body and reduce feelings of anxiety. Playgrounds also provide a safe and positive outlet for stress relief, which is essential for maintaining good mental health.

  1. Playgrounds Foster Creativity and Imagination

Hexagon stumps playgroundPlaygrounds offer a creative outlet for children to use their imaginations and explore their creativity. This kind of imaginative play has been shown to be beneficial for cognitive development, problem-solving skills, and emotional regulation. Lessons that can’t always be learnt in the classroom. The opportunity to engage in imaginative play can help reduce stress and improve mental health.

  1. Playgrounds Provide a Sense of Freedom and Independence

Playgrounds can offer a sense of freedom and independence for children and adults. For children, playgrounds offer a space to explore and discover new things independently, without the constant supervision of adults. This can help build confidence and self-esteem. For adults, playgrounds can provide a space to unwind and let loose, away from the stresses of everyday life.

In conclusion, playgrounds are not just fun places to play; they offer many benefits for mental health. They promote physical activity, encourage socialisation and positive interaction, provide a safe and positive outlet for stress relief, foster creativity, and imagination, and provide a sense of freedom and independence. The importance of these spaces cannot be underestimated. The importance of designing these spaces well can also not be taken lightly. We as a business understand this and it’s the main motivation behind what we do. So, next time you are feeling stressed or anxious, consider taking a trip to the playground and enjoy the many mental health benefits it has to offer.

Bespoke metal play structure

bespoke school playgrounds

Playgrounds have always been an important part of childhood. They offer an opportunity for children to play, explore, and socialise with their peers. However, as technology continues to evolve, the way we approach play is also changing. In the future, we can expect playgrounds to look and feel very different from the ones we grew up with. Here are some of the ways that playgrounds might look like in the future.

playground equipment of the future

Interactive Equipment

One of the most exciting possibilities for future playgrounds is the integration of interactive equipment. Augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) could transform playgrounds by offering immersive experiences that allow children to explore and interact with virtual environments. This technology could allow children to experience the thrill of riding on a roller coaster, without ever leaving the playground.

Additionally, smart equipment could be incorporated to provide real-time feedback to children about their play. For example, a smart basketball hoop could track the number of baskets made and provide tips for improving accuracy. Similarly, a smart climbing wall could track progress and offer personalised challenges to help children improve their skills.

These thoughts also raise additional questions in regards to our interactions with technology. There is a argument to say that time away from ‘technology’ is just as important. We often find it’s difficult to prise screens out of the hands of children. Perhaps technologies like this need to be left at the gate and more natural interactions between humans and the real world are what’s more important. Perhaps there will be even more of a need for this as technology advances.

Eco-friendly Designs

With the growing concern about climate change and the environment, playgrounds of the future are likely to be designed with sustainability in mind. This could include the use of environmentally-friendly materials, such as recycled plastic or natural materials like wood and stone. Furthermore, playgrounds could be designed to incorporate green spaces and vegetation, providing children with an opportunity to learn about and interact with nature. We have seen a more of a move in this direction in the last few years. Trends in the industry come and go which makes us wonder what’s next.

In addition to promoting sustainability, eco-friendly playground equipment could also incorporate renewable energy sources. For example, solar panels could be integrated into the design to power lighting or charging stations for electronic devices. We have already seen interventions like this within seating in the last public realm redevelopments in central London

Inclusive Designs

As society becomes more inclusive, playgrounds of the future will be designed to accommodate a wider range of abilities and needs. This could include the incorporation of wheelchair-accessible equipment, sensory-rich areas, and equipment designed for children with disabilities.

There seems to be a step a way from the traditional approach to playground design why various items are picked off a shelf to tick the box for budget and requirement. In the future space will be limited, a more site specific approach is often needed. Bespoke playgrounds are more frequently design into the wider landscapes making them more welcoming and user friendly. More thought is put into playground design as a whole as more understanding of their importance is gained.

Furthermore, future playgrounds could be designed to encourage intergenerationacalisthenics outdoor gym equipmentl play. This would provide opportunities for grandparents and parents to play with their children, creating a more inclusive and multi-generational community. Again, since the pandemic we have had many more requests for mix use play areas. Our designs often extend into outdoor gym equipment areas. We have also successfully seen skatepark equipment integrated in to public realm areas which encourages more interaction between older children and the wider community. This new way of design of public spaces helps bridge the gap between young and old and enriches the communities they serve.

Playground Equipment Safety Enhancements

Safety has always been a top priority for playground designers, but in the future, new technologies will allow for even greater safety enhancements. For example, the use of smart sensors and AI could help detect and prevent accidents before they happen. Similarly, technologies in soft materials and impact-absorbing surfaces could be used to create a safer play environment.

Additionally, new technologies could be used to monitor and control access to the playground, ensuring that children are safe and secure. For example, facial recognition technology could be used to monitor who enters and exits the playground, while RFID tags could be used to track children within the play area.

Playground Lighting Technology

Powered lighting is now cheaper, brighter and more power efficient than it ever has been. It is also now possible to power bright lights with solar powered batteries making lighting play spaces more possible. A well lit playground can be used in the darker months of the winter which allows yearlong use and reduces antisocial behaviour. Perhaps in the future all playgrounds will be make more use of powered light.

bespoke playground by playequip

 

Learning Opportunities

Playgrounds of the future will not only be designed for physical play but also for intellectual and cognitive development. The incorporation of educational components into playgrounds could provide children with an opportunity to learn while they play.

For example, playgrounds could incorporate interactive displays that teach children about science, history, or art. Similarly, interactive play equipment could be designed to teach children about numbers, letters, or shapes. As science provides more understanding of the mind and body our playgrounds will most likely evolve with it.

Community Spaces

Playgrounds of the future will be designed to encourage socialisation and community building. This could include the incorporation of seating areas, picnic tables, and other amenities that promote socialising and gathering. Furthermore, future playgrounds could be designed to serve as community hubs, hosting events and activities for people of all ages and backgrounds.

In conclusion, the playgrounds of the future are likely to be very different from the ones we grew up with. In many ways they already are. They will be designed with sustainability, inclusivity, safety, and learning in mind through better understanding of human nature. New technologies, such as AR/VR, smart equipment, and sensors, might be integrated to enhance the play experience and promote development. Whether the thirst for new technology translates to the playground is yet to be seen.

calisthenics outdoor gym equipment

Calisthenics workouts have gained a lot of popularity in recent years, and for good reason. These types of workouts involve using your own body weight to perform exercises that help build strength, endurance, and flexibility. Calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment, in particular, have become increasingly popular as they provide a fun, challenging, and effective way to exercise. In this blog post, we’ll explore why calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment are the best form of exercise.

Firstly, calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment are versatile and can be adapted to any fitness level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, you can easily adjust the intensity of your workout by modifying the number of repetitions, sets, or the difficulty of the exercise. This makes calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment accessible to everyone, regardless of their fitness level or experience. Additionally, outdoor gym equipment is designed to provide a full-body workout, targeting multiple muscle groups at once. This means you can maximize the benefits of your workout without having to spend hours at the gym.

Secondly, calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment are cost-effective.

Calisthenics outdoor gym equipment

Unlike traditional gym equipment, which can be expensive and require a lot of space, outdoor gym equipment is often free to use and can be found in public spaces such as parks or playgrounds. This makes it a great option for those who want to get fit without breaking the bank. Additionally, because calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment use your own body weight, there’s no need for expensive equipment or gym memberships. All you need is a willingness to get outside and start moving.

Thirdly, calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment are convenient. With outdoor gym equipment, you can work out whenever and wherever you want. You don’t have to worry about gym hours, crowded machines, or commuting to and from the gym. Instead, you can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while

getting in a great workout. This convenience factor makes it easier to stick to a regular exercise routine, which is important for achieving and maintaining good health.

Fourthly, calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment are fun and engaging. The variety of equipment available, such as pull-up bars, parallel bars, and dip bars, makes it easy to switch up your workout routine and keep things interesting. This can help you stay motivated and avoid boredom, which is a common reason why people give up on exercise programs. Additionally, outdoor gym equipment can be used for group workouts, which can be a fun and social way to exercise.

Finally, calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment offer numerous health benefits. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment also help build strength, improve balance and flexibility, and increase cardiovascular endurance. These benefits can lead to improved overall health and wellbeing, as well as increased energy levels and a better mood.

In conclusion, calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment are the best form of exercise for many reasons. They’re versatile, cost-effective, convenient, fun, engaging, and offer numerous health benefits. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, calisthenics workouts with outdoor gym equipment can help you achieve your fitness goals while enjoying the great outdoors. So, the next time you’re looking for a challenging and effective workout, head to your local park or playground and give outdoor gym equipment a try. Your body and mind will thank you.

bespoke school playgrounds

Playgrounds have undergone significant changes over the past 100 years, evolving from simple swings and slides to highly advanced and interactive play structures.

In the early 20th century, playgrounds were designed primarily for physical exercise and consisted of simple equipment such as swings, seesaws, and slides. The playgrounds were made of metal and wood and often lacked safety features such as soft surfaces to cushion falls. As a result, children were frequently injured on these playgrounds.

In the mid-20th century, there was a growing awareness of the importance of play in children’s development. Playgrounds began to incorporate more imaginative and creative elements, such as sandpits, climbing walls, and playhouses. Safety also became a priority, and playgrounds were equipped with soft surfaces, such as rubber or sand, to reduce the risk of injury.

Brutalist playgrounds

In the latter part of the 20th century, playground equipment continued to evolve with the introduction of new materials and technologies. The use of plastic and composite materials allowed for the creation of larger and more elaborate play structures. Some of these structures incorporated interactive features such as rope bridges, tube slides, and climbing ropes.

In recent years, the use of technology has played an increasingly important role in playground design. Electronic and digital elements, such as interactive sensors, sound systems, and displays, have been added to playgrounds to provide children with a more immersive and engaging play experience.

Natural timber climbing frameAt the same time, there has been a growing emphasis on the educational value of play. Playgrounds now often incorporate elements designed to teach children about science, math, and the environment. For example, some playgrounds feature wind turbines, water wheels, and rock walls that teach children about energy and gravity.

Another trend in recent years has been the move towards inclusive and accessible playgrounds, which are designed to meet the needs of children with disabilities. Playgrounds now often incorporate elements such as ramps, Braille signage, and wheelchair-accessible swings.

Finally, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability in playground design. Many playgrounds now use recycled materials and incorporate elements designed to reduce energy use and waste. For example, some playgrounds feature solar panels and rain gardens.

In conclusion, playgrounds have come a long way over the past 100 years, evolving from simple structures to highly advanced and interactive play spaces. With a focus on safety, education, inclusion, and sustainability, today’s playgrounds provide children with a wide range of opportunities to play, learn, and grow.

playground swings

The Covid-19 pandemic showed us the best, and at times, the worst aspects of our communities, with people pulling together to help those around them when they were isolated and couldn’t get out for basic shopping. Helping the elderly who were too afraid to leave their homes by collecting prescriptions and even walking their dogs were jobs community members took on with gusto.
And when the children went back to school, some helped with childcare needs, taking children to the local park to play on the outdoor play equipment there due to lack of childcare provision elsewhere. Of course, this isn’t the story everywhere, but overall, most communities certainly tried to get to know each other better, help each other a little more and care a lot more about the areas they call home and the people that live there.
At PlayEquip, one of our main clienteles are councils requiring equipment for playgrounds and community recreational grounds. We believe that providing a space for play and exercise is not only essential for children, but for neighbourhoods also. There are a multitude of advantages a playground can offer a community, some of which can be completely overlooked, but have profound impacts.
The humble community playground – why outdoor playground equipment brings us together For many children with no outdoor space at home, the local playground is an essential outdoor space, and one that the earlier part of the pandemic lockdowns saw being closed to the public. These spaces offer a vital place for children to get out and expend some energy, be active and enjoy the fresh air. But they offer a lot more than just that.

playground equipment for parks
They are a place where children of all ages can meet up with their friends and make new friends. On a wider scale as part of a local park, they offer a green space at the centre of every community where people of all ages can enjoy being outside. More modern playgrounds don’t just offer playground equipment. Skateable objects and parkour obstacles also attract older children and young adults. The interaction with subcultures such as skateboarders, strengthen the local community even further by bringing people together that might not otherwise ever interact.
For the new mum with a toddler moving into the area, they can be a place to meet other parents and form some friendships. They offer a place for children, and parents, to unwind after the school day and at weekends and school holidays.
The parks where these community playgrounds are often situated provide somewhere for older people to safely walk their dogs and interact with other people – often the only time in the day they might speak to others.

Promotion of Creativity

As you may have read in previous posts or observed within our bespoke project, at PlayEquip we like to design and build structures that encourage open ended play. There is nothing more creative than a child’s imagination so to build a playground within your community is a great way to boost creativity for each child. Something that may be seen as an artistic quality is in fact a life skill that we draw on throughout life, not to mention an essential part of childhood and their development.
A community playground provides the perfect environment to not only physically exercise but also creatively and mentally exercise for children too.

A Safe Space

A community playground or recreational area can provide a great space for families and friends to meet up and feel safe. Although it has been noted that with a higher population density there brings a higher crime rate it has been found that within urban communities a playground can actually help to bring a neighbourhood together.
With an increase of visitors to a park and positive community activities research has found that the safety of not only the park, but the neighbourhood goes up. Put simply, an exciting, well built community park will attract families which will in turn detract negative behaviour and create a great safe place.

Environmental Willow Playground Den

Aside from the health and social aspects that a community playground can offer there a number of other benefits to be had from a playground of this type.
When a playground is placed in a park or area with some grass and trees, no matter how small, it benefits the environment, providing a place for birds and small animals to live and creating a better, enriched environment for the entire community to enjoy.

Raising Property Value

Whilst a playground can provide a great place to visit in a community, it can also have a significant and often forgotten economic impact on the community they serve. This comes in the form of the

Drapers Field Bespoke Playground Equipment

recreational facility that they provide for both young and old alike and also the value that it can add to the local properties including any that are adjacent to the playground by way of passing revenue.
This also runs true for local businesses – community playgrounds automatically boosts an area’s popularity and footfall. Regardless of a community’s economic standing, it has been shown that by adding a playground or recreational area almost any area benefits with increased foot traffic. It can truly transform an area from a quiet, nondescript town into a friendly, welcoming neighbourhood drawing in families, businesses and much more.
At PlayEquip we believe in the real value that a quality playground and quality outdoor play equipment can offer to its surrounding area. If you would like to know more about the products we can provide your community with then why not give us a call?

playground equipment for parks

Wooden Play structure with slideThe last couple of years have brought challenges for all of us from the retail sector through manufacturing to import and export businesses and one of the biggest issues has been around obtaining goods and products from overseas.
Indeed, along with so many other businesses we have struggled with longer lead times from overseas manufacturers as have many of our customers and this has led to an increase in customer enquiries. And as welcome as these extra enquiries for our playground equipment are, we are looking upon the current supply difficulties as a great opportunity to take advantage of the
growing clamour for British made products. Indeed, statistics released by the Office of National Statistics have highlighted the increase in demand for British products around the world.

Proud of our products

Climbing wall denHere at PlayEquip we are very proud to be able to produce the kind of natural wooden playground and outdoor gym equipment, including bespoke items, that companies, local authorities, schools and other organisations can be confident in the fact that the manufacture and installation of equipment is second to none. They can also be sure, when choosing outdoor play equipment from us that the materials used in the production process ensures durability and longevity through many years of robust use.
We have always taken pride in manufacturing our products using steel for durability and hardwood timber which does not need any additional chemical treatment so ensuring a low maintenance, long-lasting piece of equipment which is safe for people of all ages to use.

Now using British hardwood

In order to circumvent the supply chain problems plaguing manufacturing in the UK and more importantly to fulfil our customers’ requirements more speedily we are especially proud of the fact that we have now started to design and build our outdoor playground equipment using UK-grown timbers. These are sustainably sourced from non-coniferous certified woodlands here in the UK and according to government guidelines. All UK-grown timbers are sustainably seasoned and kiln dried to ensure that the natural beauty, strength and characteristics of the wood are retained.

How will this affect our products?

Bespoke Playground EquipmentAt PlayEquip we have more than 15 years of experience in the manufacture of high-quality playground and outdoor gym
equipment, using only the best quality hardwoods and steel for products designed by our highly qualified design team. We fully
expect our bespoke design products, for which we are industry leaders, to be more sought after than ever before to reflect the
fact that UK-grown quality timbers are now incorporated into our products.

Still the same choice

Our outdoor playground equipment includes a huge variety of items designed to be enjoyed by children of all ages and abilities
so whether your requirement is for playground swings and slides, climbing frames, trim trails or wooden playhouses you can be
assured of the same high quality that is our hallmark.
Our dedication to cutting-edge design, safety and durability will only benefit from our decision to embrace an all-British
manufacturing process and we know our customers will feel the benefits too.

Playground Equipment

Dip bars in use

Nature calls to us. John Muir said, “The mountains are calling, and I must go.” So many millions have experienced the call of nature. It might be into the mountains, over the plains or through the dunes of a desert.

If you find it challenging to connect with nature or miss some of that unbridled joy and easy connection you used to experience as a child, there are plenty of ways to rekindle the flame. But, arguably, the best way to connect with nature is active.

When your blood is pumping, your brain and body become more oxygenated, and you become more aware. Unfortunately, in today’s age of technology, it is all too easy to sit slumped in front of a computer breathing shallow breaths all day and feeling fuzzy.

Instead, next time you go outside, try one of these nine ways to both exercises and connect with the landscape around you.

How to Use Outdoor Exercise to Connect with Nature

Willow Playground Den1. Disconnect to Connect

First, ditch the technology. There are many positive things technology has done for us in the modern world. However, there are many more things it can take away if we let it. 

Take out the earphones, even if it is just for part of the activity. Stop looking down at the phone or ask the person on the other end of the phone to call you back later. You will find that it makes all the difference.

2. Find Fellow Nature Lovers

We have likely all heard about the positive benefits you can get from having a workout buddy. They help motivate you to keep up the excellent work, and they keep you going harder and faster during the activity.

Finding someone who enjoys the outdoors as much as they enjoy the activity allows you to get the best of both worlds. Not only will they help keep you going, but they will also be interested in finding new hikes, trails and adventures to try. But, of course, nothing is saying you always have to participate in the same activity!

3. Set Distance Goals

Even if you can’t find your perfect workout and nature partner, you can always motivate yourself. No matter what exercise you are doing, set yourself distance goals. It works whether it be a specific mileage or a new park or mountain you want to explore.

4. Go on a HikeComposite materials for playgrounds

Now that we have gone through the methodology for connecting with nature on your chosen mode of exercise let’s get some ideas on the exercises you can do. Hiking is perhaps one of the most obvious, particularly for people who live in a hilly or mountainous area.

Hiking is a good choice for those people who want to experience nature at a slower pace or who need less of an impact sport. 

If you are goal-oriented, you can always take hiking to the next level and go on a backpacking trip. These kinds of extended stays in nature allow you to become even more grounded than a couple of hours outside will.

5. Feel the Waves

Do you live next to the ocean, a river or a lake? Give the water a chance to help you forge a new connection with nature. There are plenty of options on this medium as well. You can try surfing, a sport enjoyed in both the cold and hot parts of the world, so don’t let the temperature limit you.

Not so keen on only having a board against you and the waves? Then start with kayaking or canoeing. You can do these exercises on almost any body of water as well. That way, even if you are many hours from the oceanside, you can still connect with water.

Other options include paddle boarding, windsurfing and white water rafting. You take your pick in your area, and you are bound to find some excellent choices.

bike station6. Embrace the Euro Velo Cycle Network (or Anything Regionally Similar)

The most extensive cycle network available to you for those living in Europe is the Euro Velo Cycle Network. You can cycle through the countryside to different countries throughout Europe. However, even if you don’t live in Europe, you likely have a developed cycle path in your area.

If you are not yet familiar with your local cycle network, the local government’s website is generally the best place to find it.

7. Find Races in Favourite Natural Areas (or Try Somewhere New)

Running might not be for everyone, but you will have all kinds of options if it’s for you. You don’t necessarily need specific walkways or paths to run. You can try trail running, breathing in the fresh air from the forests, plains or mountainside as you go.

Need some motivation to keep you engaging? Try to find races with achievable distances that are in natural places you enjoy. Or try new places that you haven’t heard of before to explore further afield.

Outdoor Play Equipment Drapers Field

Alternatively, you may find a park with a great outdoor fitness equipment set up – this is great for the whole family and can not only strengthen the body and mind, but also personal relationships.

8. Get Dirty; Try Gardening!

Some of you might have stopped on this point and thought, “wait, gardening isn’t exercising!” However, you would be wrong. For those who need low-impact exercise, gardening is an excellent way to spend time outdoors without injuring our bodies. You can also use it as a form of recovery if you have already gotten injured.

Plus, you can literally stop and smell the roses. Talk about a release from stress and anxiety.

9.Adrenaline Junkie? Go Rock Climbing

Our last option is for those who enjoy their heart pumping, but not just because of the exercise. Rock climbing might be a challenge for those that don’t appreciate heights, but it’s also a great form of exercise. In addition, rock climbing is one of those exercises that work some of the “harder to reach” muscles in your body.

Climbing isn’t the only thing you can do to connect with nature in an exciting way. No matter what you want to get out of your moments of connection with nature, there are many ways to enjoy it actively. 

Getting active outside allows you to reap the benefits of having an active life and an outdoor one. So what’s stopping you? Strap on those sneakers, snowshoes or swimsuits and get out there!

Forest trees

 

Outdoor Playground Equipment Wembley

If you’re searching the internet for outdoor playground equipment, you might find there are a lot of different prices. In fact, the range is huge! So the answer to this question is really as much or as little as you want it to.

However, perhaps the best way to tackle this is not to consider the cost but instead value for money. After all, not everything expensive is worth the investment and cheap could mean buying twice. Assessing value for money is the best way to see the true worth of your investment.

contemporary bespoke playgroundsQuality materials, quality play

Here at Play Equip, we believe in value for money. While our products may not be the cheapest, they will last a lifetime and bring priceless memories for many years.

Made to last, high-quality natural playground equipment brings vitality and much needed natural experiences for children in a world where plastic has invaded. We believe in building for durability and only use the finest timber that offers natural resistance to weather damage. Our playground equipment is even strong enough for adults, so you can enjoy playground equipment with your children to bring out your inner child.

Knowledge and experiencecustom playground equipment london

Our many years supplying playground and outdoor gym equipment have seen us recognise pitfalls often identified with cheaper chemically treated wooden playground equipment, so we just don’t use them. The natural beauty of the wood we use only improves with age. Choosing chemical-free timber naturally resilient to rot embraces the organic properties of Oak, Larch and Robinia to ensure the highest maintenance-free quality equipment on the market.

Our stainless steel and galvanised fixings are engineered to last, giving 20 plus years of practically maintenance-free service. That cannot be said for the cheaper alternatives. So yes, you may pay more initially, but you are certainly guaranteeing the service and safety of your playground.

Wooden Playground EquipmentYears of use

Imagine the joy of seeing many generations of a family enjoying the same playground equipment. It could be your children and grandchildren playing on the same equipment. Equipment that will stand the test of time without constantly breaking, becoming unsafe or having to be disposed of and replaced.

Plastic and cheaper alternatives are all well and good, but they are subject to weather damage, often any more than the most infrequent of use can see them compromised and potentially unsafe. Is this value for money? If you constantly have to check and replace bolts and fixings, imagine the maintenance time and cost involved and the potential for injury that you are at risk of. We believe the actual value of playground equipment is investing to ensure that this is not what faces you

Lower turnover and replacement saves you money long-term

Paying a little more to ensure you buy quality equipment from leading natural playground equipment specialists will protect children’s play areas safely for the future. If you add up the maintenance time and money, time sourcing replacement parts or even whole pieces of equipment, costs can quickly increase. We believe in buying it right and buying it once. Choosing quality playground equipment that is hardwearing, beautiful to look at and guaranteed to last will mean you avoid much of the maintenance requirements or ongoing repair costs incurred with many plastic or cheap timber alternatives. Your initial saving from purchasing less sturdy reliable play equipment could easily be wiped out and leave you spending far more over the life of the equipment.

Buying the best value, not necessarily the cheapest play equipment makes commercial sense for open spaces and playgrounds. In home gardens, it makes emotional sense; you will get to see many generations enjoying the play equipment or at least have a valuable piece to pass on should you move. For bespoke, cost-effective playground equipment that ticks all the boxes, why not get in touch. We could help you plan a sustainable play area according to your budget and space.

DWG Triple Platform Robinia Frame

Free Downloadable CAD Blocks For Playground Equipment

Are you an Architect or Landscape Architect? Then you’ll know the pain of trying to ensure you get the computerised design for new projects just right. But why make life harder than it needs to be when you can get free downloadable CAD blocks for our entire range of natural wooden playground equipment? We are here to make you life easier. Our website has all the information you need. Prices, specification and Free CAD blocks.

Cantilever Play Frame Photo DWG Cantilever Play Frame

Playground equipment product specification

What are CAD blocks?

Quite simply, they are an architect or landscape designer’s dream. 3D images of our play equipment range in a downloadable file for digital layout drawings that you can easily work into your design, allowing your clients to get a great view of how the finished space will look. Our playground equipment CAD blocks are free to download and fully scaled, making it simple to create your design using actual products that will look in person just as good as they look on screen. We have even added prices to simplify budgeting and ordering.

Recently we have seen a dramatic rise in the number of architects using our playground equipment. They tell us this is because our free downloadable playground equipment CAD blocks made it easier for them to create the perfect digital play space layout. They designed with actual equipment in mind and could easily show clients their vision and work within budgets more efficiently, as we even priced the items for them. They also had the option to work with us to create custom items and layouts where existing landscape factors or design features needed a more bespoke approach. Our attention to detail means we work closely with architects and designers to find the best equipment, whether from our standard range or bespoke build. We can work within existing landscapes, such as offering protection for tree roots and other areas of an outdoor space. DWG example Swing Set

We want all children and adults to have the best experiences in the great outdoors, which is why we work closely with designers on every project. For some, it is simply ordering our standard equipment. For others, we become heavily immersed in collaborations to reach the perfect result. Either way, your client will be satisfied with the finished look, as using our CAD blocks means it will be identical to what they see on screen.

 

Organic Natural Playground Equipment Design That Feels As Good As It Looks

Our equipment includes gym and playground equipment Close up balance bean trailconstructed of high-quality natural chemical-free wood. Architects and designers can now clearly see how our pieces fit in an area using our gym and play equipment downloadable CAD blocks. We build using the best Oak, Larch and Robinia, naturally resilient to rot, with no drawbacks of working with chemically treated wood. Oak works best in our climate, where playground equipment is in contact with the ground. With high resin natural antiseptic, Larch is as durable as treated timber whilst not chemically corroding fixings. For a perfectly natural look, Robinia offers rustic aesthetics whilst being incredibly durable.  Where green space or natural materials are rare, our equipment provides the authentic feel of the great outdoors.

Is It Really Free Of Charge?

We have made our playground equipment 3D CAD downloads available free of charge. By assisting outdoor designers, we are delighted to say that our vision of a world where every child can experience natural outdoor play equipment is becoming a reality. Our organic approach is excellent for the environment and even better for health. Not only that, but you can be sure that the equipment we supply conforms to strict safety standards. As play equipment specialists who work in parallel with an independent play safety inspector and other professionals, we ensure that every aspect of a design meets every safety consideration.

Looking to create a design for an outdoor space with the wow factor? Why not download our CAD block to give your garden or playground design the perfect finishing touch. We are here for your assistance. Should you need anymore information or have any play design questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

DWG Downloads