Facts on Jungle Gyms and Monkey Bars

Material Used

• Jungle gyms and monkey bars are usually made from metal pipe or rope.

History

• Jungle gyms were invented in 1920 by Sebastian Hinton. The term "monkey bars" was first used in 1955.

Design

• Jungle gym structures may include parallel bars, overhead bars, bridges, tires, and ladders.

Benefits

• Climbing on jungle gyms helps children build arm and leg muscles and to improve gross motor skills (such as body coordination and balance).

Safety

• Forty percent of playground injuries occur on climbing structures like jungle gyms. Jungle gyms should not be used by children under age four, must be properly maintained, and must have a soft surface underneath them. Monkey bars cause the most number of injuries, and many experts recommend not using them on playgrounds.