In May 2023, Fast Company published an article titled “The Death of a Place to Sit.” The article focused on the trend among fast casual restaurants that are removing seating areas in favor of pickup counters. The article pointed out the negative social ramifications of removing restaurant seats in this age of increasing digital social interaction.
While parks typically don’t serve up burgers and fries, they do provide an essential thread in the social fabric of a community. We typically talk about parks and outdoor recreation areas as prime real estate for increasing physical activity. However, in light of the Fast Company article, we want to switch gears and talk about the value of sitting still in a park. Read on and learn more about the value of park benches and a place to sit.
Park Benches - A Stealth Motivator for Physical Activity
Park benches are an important amenity for any public park. They provide a place for people to rest, relax, and socialize. They also encourage people to spend more time outdoors, which can have a number of benefits for physical and mental health.
Improved Physical Health
Park benches, picnic tables, and other seating options can help to improve physical health in a number of ways. First, they provide a place for people to rest and recover during physical activity. This is especially important for people with limited mobility, who may not be able to walk or run for long periods of time. Second, park benches can be used as a base for exercise. For example, people can use them to do push-ups, sit-ups, and other bodyweight exercises. Third, park benches can encourage people to walk or jog more often. When people know that there is a place to rest along the way, they are more likely to stick with their workout routine.
Improved Mental Health
Park benches can also help to improve mental health. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Park benches provide a convenient place for people to relax and enjoy the outdoors. They can also be used as a place to meet friends and family, which can help to reduce loneliness and isolation.
Increased Safety
Park benches can also help to increase safety in public parks. They provide a place for people to gather and socialize, which can deter crime. Additionally, park benches can be used as a place to observe the park, which can help to identify potential problems.
Increased Use of Public Parks
Park benches can also help to increase use of public parks. When people know that there are places to sit, they are more likely to visit the park. This can lead to a number of benefits, such as increased physical activity, reduced crime, and improved air quality.
Selecting the Right Mix of Park Amenities
Park benches are an important amenity for any public park. They provide a number of benefits, including improved physical and mental health, increased safety, and increased use of public parks. When planning a new park or making improvements to an existing park, it is important to consider the need for park benches.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, park benches can also help to:
- Promote community spirit
- Provide a place for people to read, write, or play games
- Offer respite from the sun or rain
- Serve as a landmark or gathering point
- Enhance the aesthetic appeal of a park
Park benches are a relatively inexpensive and easy way to improve the quality of life in a community. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation with one of our park bench experts, contact the GameTime representative in your neighborhood.
