Pediatric Indoor Gym, Rock Climbing Wall, Indoor Playground

What are the Benefits of an Indoor Gym?

Children develop skills on the playground that often become part of their lifelong skill sets. These abilities are carried forward into their adulthood, which is why playgrounds are one of the most important environments for children. Most forms of play are essential for healthy development. But free and spontaneous play, the kind that happens on playgrounds, is the most beneficial type. Having exciting, challenging, and engaging playground equipment is important to keep children happy while they are still developing their learning abilities.

Besides the obvious benefit of physical activity, indoor playgrounds also enhance motor skills, social skills, and analytical thinking. Activities at indoor gyms use up lots of youthful energy and additionally aid in the development of arm and shoulder muscles in children. This improves their motor skills and coordination and can lead to improved performance of other tasks, such as handwriting abilities.

Indoor gyms can help children with disabilities. Instead of avoiding playing sports or other athletics, they can refocus their energy and mind on an activity that they see as fun. It will help keep them active and healthy.

Another big benefit of indoor gyms is if there is not a playground nearby or there is not any outside area available for children to play in. No need to travel, pack snacks or extra clothing to have on hand. The kids can just come to the kitchen for snacks or meals, and go back to playing some more. The indoor playground is open every day of the year, all day long, rain or shine. When a bathroom break is needed, they can just go down the hall.

What is a Rock Climbing Wall?

Climbing is a natural activity for children of all ages, and rock climbing is an increasingly popular form of indoor climbing. It is performed on artificial structures that mimic the experience of outdoor rock, and these formulations are available in many shapes and sizes including walls, panels and caves. It is a generally more challenging activity for kids compared to other playground equipment.

A rock climbing wall is constructed from wood or a thick board, with grips for the hands and feet. The surface is covered with textured products that include concrete and paint, or polyurethane and sand, and may contain indentions and bulges to take the form of outdoor rock surfaces.

There are a few differences between climbing outdoors and climbing indoors. Climbing artificial walls indoors is much safer because of the controlled environmental conditions. Hand grips are easily seen in contrast with a natural wall where finding a good hold or foothold may be a challenge.

Rock climbing walls build muscle and endurance, and are a healthy option for children who are not interested in team sports. The climber uses both mental and physical skills by having to plan and anticipate his or her next move to get to the top. While climbing, kids feel a sense of mastery, independence and accomplishment and gain a greater control over their hands and feet.

Remember; always wear proper climbing equipment when necessary.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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