Which One is Better, Jungle Gyms or Monkey Bars?

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 things they are, and we'll guide you through which option is 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 centre that can keep kids busy for hours every day — which 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 packed into the one structure. You can climb, swing, slide and more to your heart's desire, all on the same play set.

Physical development: From a fitness point of view, all the elements that make up a jungle gym strengthen completely different muscles and motor skills, along with 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 on your own, 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 children 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 is 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 at 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 favourite.

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 than a full jungle gym, so you can still have fun even with a small backyard.

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

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

The Negatives of Monkey Bars

Will they get bored? Because standalone monkey bars only have one play option, some kids will eventually get bored compared with having a jungle gym. But it really depends on the child. You could get a jungle gym with monkey bars and find they only use the monkey bars.

Age limits: Monkey bars are hard for younger or shorter children, and for kids without much upper body strength. They suit older children who can handle the strength requirements.

Safety: Like everything, safety matters. You can fall off monkey bars, so if that's a concern, put soft-fall underneath, or choose a jungle gym without monkey bars. If you get standalone monkey bars, don't put them on concrete.

3. Which Is Better For You?

The most important thing to think about is what your family would like best. It really depends on your child's age, interests and physical abilities, your budget, and the space in your backyard. If you're really stuck, talk about it with your family — unless it's a surprise, in which case, shhh.

A jungle gym is the better choice if:

• You want a lot of activities, with something for every child's interest and ability level.
• You have enough space in your backyard for a larger play structure.
• You want both physical exercise and imaginative play.
• You have several children, or you're the one who always hosts the playdates.

Standalone monkey bars are the better choice if:

• Your child mostly wants activities for upper body strength and likes a physical challenge.
• You have limited backyard space but still want your kids to have a fun activity.
• 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 standalone monkey bars, the most important things to weigh up are your child's interests and abilities and the space you have. By giving them a safe, fun outdoor play area, you're giving your child the chance to stay active, build strength and have fun in their own backyard.

Explore our ranges of jungle gyms and monkey bars, or browse all our backyard playgrounds.