Foam Pit Playing

Two children climbing on foam blocks

Foam pit (By Staff Sgt. Alexandre Montes - Public Domain)

Foam pit playing is a recreational activity in which participants enjoy unstructured play or practice acrobatic moves in a pool of padded foam blocks. The foam blocks are often lightweight and small for easy pickup, though large enough to avoid accidental ingestion by young children. Foam pits are usually surrounded by a padded surface, and may be adjacent to trampolines or other gymnastics or parkour equipment so that athletes can attempt new tricks without the fear of a hard landing. They are also enjoyed by children as a site for unstructured, creative play.

Is this activity known by any other names?

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What are the origins of the activity abroad and in Canada?

Foam pits developed from ball pits, which originated in the United States in 1976 and spread to Canada soon thereafter. Foam pits are a more recent phenomenon that have become prominent at trampoline sport facilities.

Who takes part?

Although associated with young children, males and females of diverse ages and ethnocultural backgrounds can take part in this activity.

When does it occur / How often do you take part?

In the Greater Toronto Area, foam pits are used year-round at various indoor facilities.

Are there any organized clubs, groups, organizations or leagues?

Foam pit playing is is an unstructured activity.

Cultural Significance

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Is there anything else we should know?

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Two children climbing on foam blocks

Foam pit (By Staff Sgt. Alexandre Montes - Public Domain)