Do It Yourself Jungle Gyms

A jungle gym is a gymnasium that usually has climbing frames where children can get physical exercise while playing and using their imagination. There are two ways to make a do-it-yourself jungle gym. You can buy all the materials and make it from scratch, or buy a kit that has almost everything you need including step-by-step instructions. Style, size, materials and tools need to be considered when building a DIY jungle gym.

  1. Style and Size

    • Determine the size of the jungle gym you want to build according to the amount of room in your yard. You wouldn’t want a jungle gym that takes up to much space or you’ll end up with an overcrowded yard. Make sure there’s about a 6-inch fall zone all around the jungle gym. Next, choose the style you want. Many jungle gyms have a platform and slide, but you can add a swing set, fort or tree house. Some styles of jungle gyms are called Money Trouble, Catswalk, Gorillas Hangout and Jungle Lodge. A jungle gym should be built on a level area.

    Materials

    • Jungle gyms can be built from materials such as wood, plastic and metal. Hardwood, such as oak and red cedar, is a good choice if you’re using wood because it’s rot and insect resistant. Stainless steel tunnels, trapeze bars and platforms are ideal to add to a jungle gym, as they are very durable and will last a long time. If you plan on putting a jungle gym together made of plastic, the plastic should be the type that’s durable. One safety advantage of plastic is that there are no splinters or paint chips.

    Tools and Plans

    • When you build a jungle gym with or without a kit, you’ll need certain tools. Three of the main power tools you’ll probably need are a circular saw and an electric drill or cordless drill. Other tools you may need are a saw, hammer, tape measure and pencil. Basic carpentry skills are usually all you need to build a jungle gym. It’s important to inspect a jungle gym regularly for safety reasons.