---
title: 5 Smart Updates to Modernize Your Playground
description: If your playground is starting to show its age, consider adding a few modern pieces to breathe new life into the space. Here are a few of our suggestions!
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# Articles

# 5 Smart Updates to Modernize Your Playground

 Posted by [May Recreation Content Team](https://info.mayrecreation.com/blog/author/may-recreation-content-team) on  October 15, 2019

![May Recreation Modern Playground](https://info.mayrecreation.com/hubfs/May%20Recreation%20Modern%20Playground.jpg)

If your playground is starting to show its age, consider adding a few modern pieces to breathe new life into the space. By simply changing the ground cover or installing new equipment, you can update your playground without performing a full overhaul. But first, you must dream up your perfect playground space. Use the following elements to guide your vision and get thinking about modernizing your playground. 

## **Ground Cover Replacement**

You can prevent injuries and keep the fun going all through the day by installing safe ground cover surfaces under and around your play equipment. Proper playground surfacing absorbs all shocks from falls and jumps, protecting the joints and other bodily structures from harsh impacts.    

You have many incredible options at your disposal when it comes to playground surfacing, including:

- [Artificial turf](https://mayrecreation.com/artificial-turf/)
- Rubber mulch
- Pour-in-place rubber
- Wood fiber

When your playground has the right surfacing, everyone can stay safe while having a great time. In addition to preventing injuries, new surfacing also greatly improves the look and feel of your playground. 

## **Beautiful Shade Structures**

Harmful UV rays can cut playtime short, sending everyone home well before they're ready to go. Fortunately, you can prevent that situation by installing [shade structures](https://mayrecreation.com/shade-structures/) across your playground. These attractive structures sit well above the play equipment, keeping kids cool, comfortable and protected from the sun while they play. There are many different shade structure designs and sizes available to best complement your playground’s appearance.

## **Imaginative Play Equipment**

As there is nothing more exciting than having new play equipment to enjoy, adding fresh structures is one of the most popular ways to modernize your playground. From swings to climbers, there is a wide array of incredible equipment types to consider. Think about adding equipment that sparks the imagination and gets kids playing together in an instant. Your trusted playground supplier can help you select your ideal equipment systems and complete your build with ease.

## **Fitness Equipment for Caregivers**

Kids are not the only ones who want to enjoy their time at the playground — caregivers appreciate having interesting and productive things to do as well. To meet this need, upgrade your playground with outdoor fitness equipment of all kinds. Instead of simply lounging on the bench, driven caregivers can hop on the equipment and burn some calories while the kids play. Think about adding:

- Chin-up bars
- Balance beams
- Sit-up benches
- Transverse bars
- Dip stations

You can also select from full outdoor training systems that allow visitors to complete a variety of exercises on one single station.

## **Onsite Furnishings**

For those who would rather rest while at the playground, you can install site furnishings for cover. Metal pavilions and gazebos offer protection from the elements and give people room to relax. You can add benches and other accommodations within these spaces to create a quiet retreat for all your valued visitors.

When you take the time to modernize your playground, you can bring it into the future without breaking the bank. Dream up your ideal playground with help from our team at [May Recreation](https://mayrecreation.com/). We proudly provide all the equipment systems and other elements needed to improve your play space for kids and caregivers alike.

[Playground Surfacing](https://info.mayrecreation.com/blog/topic/playground-surfacing) [Play & Fitness](https://info.mayrecreation.com/blog/topic/play-fitness) [Playground Design & Planning](https://info.mayrecreation.com/blog/topic/playground-design-planning)

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