Which One is Better, Jungle Gyms or Monkey Bars?

Alana S. and Georgia S. September 2024

When choosing play equipment for your backyard, jungle gyms and monkey bars are two very popular options, for very good reasons. Still, choosing the better one, for you and your family, is the tricky part, (Every family is different!). In this article, we’ll explore the things that make jungle gyms and monkey bars the amazing thing they are, and we’ll guide you through which option is the best for your family.

1. What Are Jungle Gyms?

A jungle gym is a playground that usually has features like climbing frames, slides, swings, rope ladders, and funnily enough, monkey bars. Because of its variety of activities to choose from, it’s a play center that can keep kids busy for hours everyday (That just made your job as a parent a whole lot easier!).

Positives of Jungle Gyms

Multiple Features In One Design And Price: Jungle gyms have a lot of things packed into the one design. You can climb, swing, slide, and more, to your heart's desire, all on the same play set.

Physical Development: When looking at it from a fitness point of view, all the things that make up the jungle gym strengthen completely different muscles and motor skills, and also coordination and balance.

Competition: From who can swing the highest to who can run around the structure quickest, there is a lot of competition in the words jungle gym. And if you’re alone, don’t worry! Set a timer, and try to beat your record!

Imaginative Play: With multiple features, jungle gyms serve as the perfect backdrop for imaginative play. Whether it’s pretending to be on a pirate ship or being an explorer, these structures are full of adventures.

Social Interaction: Jungle gyms are large enough for several people at once so they’re a great place for playdates, using cooperation, turn-taking and building strong friendships.

The Negatives Of Jungle Gyms:

Space Requirements: Jungle gyms need a lot of space, which will be hard if you have a small backyard.

Cost: Because they’re bigger, jungle gyms are usually more expensive than standalone monkey bars. It will probably also cost more for shipping.

2. What Are Monkey Bars?

Monkey bars have a simple design, like a horizontal ladder held up by two poles on each end. They use upper body strength as you swing and pull your hands from one bar to the next. Monkey bars are a classic playground favorite.

Positives of Monkey Bars:

Upper Body Strength: Monkey bars are great for upper body strength, grip, and hand-eye coordination. They give a challenge that encourages physical endurance.

Small Scale: Standalone monkey bars take up a lot less space compared to a full jungle gym, so you can still have fun, even if you have a small backyard.

Affordability: As a smaller structure, with less materials, standalone monkey bars are generally cheaper than jungle gyms.

Low Maintenance: With less parts, monkey bars need less maintenance, making them a practical and easy choice for many families.

Positives of Monkey Bars:

Will They Get Bored?: Because standalone monkey bars only have one play option, some kids will eventually get bored (Compared to having a jungle gym). But it really depends on the kid. For example, you could get a jungle gym with monkey bars and they only use the monkey bars.

Age Limits: Monkey bars are hard for younger (Or shorter) children or kids without much upper body strength. They’re better for older kids who can handle the strength requirements.

Safety Concerns: Like everything, safety is pretty important. You can fall off monkey bars, so if that's a concern and you’re not sure whether your child will fall off or not, then you can put padding or you can get a jungle gym without monkey bars (If you get standalone monkey bars I wouldn’t put it on concrete!).

3. Which Is Better For You?

The most important thing to think about is what your family would like the best, it all really depends on your child’s age, interests, physical abilities, your budget and the space in your backyard. If your really stuck, then I suggest talking about it with your family (Unless It’s a surprise, then 🤫 Shhhh!).

The Best Choice For You Is A Jungle Gym If:

You want to have a lot of activities, something for every child’s interest and ability level.

You have enough space in your backyard for a larger play structure.

You want physical exercise and imaginative play.

You have several children or you’re the ultimate playdate holder.

The Best Choice For You Is Standalone Monkey Bars If:

Your child mostly wants activities for upper body strength and likes a physical challenge.

You have limited backyard space but you still want your kids to have a fun activity to do.

You want a more budget-friendly option.

Your child just likes the monkey bars.

The Final Decision

Both jungle gyms and monkey bars are great choices for children’s physical and imaginative development. Whether you choose a jungle gym or prefer some standalone monkey bars, the most important thing to think about is your child’s interests, abilities, and the space you have. By giving a safe, fun outdoor play area, you’re giving your child the opportunity to stay active, build strength, and have fun in their own backyard. Think wisely!

Explore our Ranges of Jungle Gyms and Monkey Bars