Keeping kids active is an ongoing challenge, especially in the era of smartphones and video games. Although many families build playground equipment in their backyards, some climates are too rainy, cold, or hot to allow year-round use outdoors.

Indoor gyms are an excellent solution for kids, and they can be customized to suit their age and interests. It's easy to install a few basic pieces in the corner of a playroom or the basement.

The focus for kids gym equipment needs to be a balance of fun, safety, and developmentally-appropriate activities. Some equipment choices depend on the child's age, but many items can grow with the child for at least a few years. Here are eight great home gym ideas to keep your children happy and healthy.

Small Trampolines

Trampolines are both easy and fun for children of all ages to manage. Children under the age of five will require supervision to make sure they consistently jump vertically, but once they have the hang of it, they can use it on their own.

Trampolines help build leg and core muscles and are also a good test of kids' balance. If you have more than one child using the gym, make sure they understand that only one child uses each small trampoline at one time. You may want to buy a second one if needed to avoid conflict, but make sure to keep them a few feet away from each other to avoid collisions.

Climbing Ropes

Thick ropes with a few knots in them are perfect for kids who love climbing. They provide a good workout for the entire body, especially if you increase the distance between knots over time.

Keep in mind that climbing ropes can be a challenge for kids of any age who lack the upper-body strength to do them at first. Kids may need lots of prompting to practice using it if they can't manage it the first few times. However, once they hit second or third grade, they should manage the rope like a pro.

Monkey Bars

Monkey bars are generally easier for kids than climbing ropes because kids have to move themselves sideways, not upward, and can use their swinging motion to build momentum. However, monkey bars still build excellent upper body strength and hand-eye coordination.

Monkey bars for children up to third grade should be no higher than 5 ft. off the floor to help prevent serious head injuries. If you decide to build your own monkey bars, make sure the bars are spaced no more than 1 ft. apart so your children can swing across safely.

Reviewing The Best Gymnastics Bars For Kids

Gymnastics bars are great tools for channeling children's energy into something productive and healthy. Children are known to have an endless supply of energy, and a gymnastics bar gives them the needed platform to use their energy exhaustively.