Innovating Outdoor Fitness Equipment: Insights from NRPA Expo 2023
In the ever-evolving realm of outdoor fitness equipment, staying ahead in the market requires a keen understanding of challenges and the development of effective strategies. Whether you're a manufacturer, dealer, or park director, attending annual parks and recreation conferences and expos, like the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) event, provides valuable opportunities to gain feedback and learn about new opportunities in this industry. Let's explore the key takeaways from this year's NRPA Expo in Dallas, shedding light on the future of outdoor fitness equipment for America's parks.
Rethinking Fitness Trails: Embracing Fitness Clusters
Fitness trails have traditionally been a favored choice for park planners. However, the NRPA Expo revealed a growing trend away from designing fitness trails. Recognizing that fitness trails often leads to underutilization, park planners are exploring alternatives. Alternatives include clustering the equipment at a trail head, or in a highly visible and easily accessible place in your park. Understanding the limitations and disadvantages of fitness trails is vital. This knowledge can lead to a higher return on investment and more informed decisions regarding park layout.
Real Exercise Value: A Priority for Buyers
While providing real exercise value is crucial for the end-user, it's equally important for buyers. More buyers are realizing that the exercise value of the equipment directly impacts the success of the fitness park. For instance, the Apollo Multigym has real exercise features, like the adjustable chin-dip assist mechanism, catering users of all fitness abilities. This is just one example of how space can be used more effectively to prioritize real fitness features.
Standing Out in a "Play" Market
In today's outdoor fitness equipment market, many manufacturers are focusing on adult play equipment to meet the demand for recreational and fun-oriented products. While adult play equipment has its place, it's essential to recognize that adults also need access to legitimate outdoor fitness equipment to achieve their fitness goals. Keeping fit improves the ability to engage in recreational activities and play, even as we age.
The Power of a Small Footprint
In a world where space is often at a premium, the value of products with a small footprint cannot be overstated. These products not only save space but also help keep costs down. Additionally, in hot climates, the need for shade is often required, and the more equipment you have, the more shade you will need. The cost of shade is sometimes more than the equipment cost, so understanding the importance of a small footprint and its cost-saving benefits is crucial.
Certification for ASTM Standards: A Credibility Boost
Certification holds significant weight in the parks and outdoor fitness industry. Landscape Architects are continually seeking certificates for outdoor fitness equipment, much like those obtained for playground equipment. This emphasis on certification highlights the industry's growing professionalism and its commitment to delivering safe and high-quality fitness solutions.
In conclusion, the landscape of outdoor fitness equipment is dynamic, offering a mix of challenges and opportunities. The 2023 NRPA Expo provided invaluable insights and feedback to help us better navigate this dynamic environment. By addressing these challenges strategically, we can stand out in a rapidly evolving market. Innovative and differentiated products will be key to capturing the attention of customers and thriving in the competitive outdoor fitness equipment industry. The knowledge and insights gained at NRPA serve as a valuable roadmap for our journey in this evolving field!