blog
Phonics education is a crucial part of early years and early education development, forming the foundation for literacy skills that children carry with them throughout their education. While classroom-based learning plays a vital role, in early years, nursery and primary schools are discovering the power of outdoor play in reinforcing phonics lessons. Incorporating playground markings into outdoor learning spaces transforms...
With sedentary behaviour on the rise and physical inactivity now recognised as a global health risk, local communities face growing pressures to promote active lifestyles. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that insufficient physical activity contributes to 1 in 4 adults worldwide failing to meet recommended activity levels. This inactivity not only impacts individual health but also places a strain...
Playgrounds play a vital role in a child’s development both in school and in the community, providing a space for physical activity, social interaction, and cognitive growth. An inclusive playground ensures that children of all abilities can enjoy these benefits together. By incorporating accessible equipment and thoughtful design, inclusive playgrounds create welcoming environments that promote equality, empathy, and friendship. What...
The demand for nursery places in England has been steadily rising, with many nurseries struggling to meet this growing need due to limited spaces and resources. Recognising this challenge, the UK Government has introduced the School-Based Nursery Capital Grant for 2024-2025. This initiative aims to help schools repurpose existing spaces to create or expand nursery facilities, enabling better access to...
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework provides a foundation for early childhood education, supporting the holistic development of children from birth to five years old. Outdoor learning environments play an essential role in meeting EYFS goals, offering unique opportunities for children to explore, interact, and learn through play. By creating thoughtfully designed play spaces, we can foster development across...
When it comes to creating engaging and developmentally supportive outdoor spaces for children, trim trails are an outstanding option. These interactive installations not only inspire physical activity but also support children’s social and cognitive growth. Whether in schools, nurseries, or public parks, trim trails provide a dynamic play experience that promotes a range of developmental benefits. What Are Trim Trails?...
Creating a playground that encourages children to be active and healthy requires thoughtful planning, ensuring each piece of playground equipment contributes to various aspects of development—whether physical, emotional, social, or cognitive. Playhouses, in particular, can greatly enhance a child's play experience and support their growth in these areas. From the age of 2-3, children begin to engage in more collaborative...
Play is a crucial aspect of childhood development, vital for physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Every child, regardless of ability, deserves the chance to engage in outdoor play. Unfortunately, many playgrounds lack the necessary design features to accommodate all children. Here’s how to design a truly inclusive playground that welcomes everyone. An inclusive playground is intentionally crafted to be...
We all have seen outdoor gym equipment installations in public spaces and parks, whether being a user or walking or driving past outdoor workout areas, so why are outdoor workouts becoming more popular in recent times? A combination of increased public health awareness, educational initiatives, and the intrinsic benefits of outdoor activities has sparked a significant rise in these community-focused...
Creating unforgettable experiences for visitors is key, but have you thought about adding a piece of high-quality playground equipment and safety surfacing to your venue is an effective strategy? Not only does it enhance visitor satisfaction but also boosts your bottom line. A well-designed playground can significantly increase footfall, extend customer stays in areas, and foster positive word-of-mouth, for your...
Children’s play isn’t just a time for kids to have fun, but an exciting opportunity for children to learn and grow. Having the right playground equipment means you can inspire children’s physical, social and cognitive development through play. Let’s look at five types of playground equipment that will make your play space more enjoyable for children while also being great...
Physical Education and sports are an integral part of any school. It has multiple benefits like physical well-being, the development of teamwork and discipline while also enhancing mental health among students. There are many different ways to encourage and promote physical activity in schools. Here is a list of some of the sports equipment a school must have. Table Tennis...
School is where we spend the most time as children, and we are now realising that it is not just a place for academic learning but an environment where children grow physically, mentally, and socially. One crucial yet often overlooked aspect of child development is sensory play. Sensory play refers to activities that stimulate a child's senses—touch, sight, hearing, smell,...
Creating a dynamic and engaging playground while staying within a tight budget can be challenging. However, our multiplay units offer the perfect solution for schools and communities seeking to maximise fun without compromising on affordability or quality. These versatile structures provide multiple play activities in one unit, promoting physical fitness, creativity, and social interaction. The Importance of Play for Children...
Creating a fun, engaging, and safe playground involves more than just selecting the right slides and swings, the ground itself offers a vast canvas for creativity and learning. Wet pour safety surfacing, a resilient and versatile material, provides the perfect foundation to transform plain playgrounds into vibrant, educational, and imaginative spaces. Let’s explore some innovative ideas for playground surfacing using...
In today’s educational environment, promoting physical fitness and well-being among students is as crucial as academic achievement. Gymming, a prevalent and effective form of exercise, plays a significant role in modern fitness culture. Incorporating outdoor gym equipment into secondary schools is an innovative approach that introduces students to the lifestyle of looking after their physical health from an early age....
Creating a playground goes beyond selecting the right slides, swings, and climbing frames. It's about creating an environment where families, children, and community members feel comfortable, welcomed, and inclined to stay longer. Integrating outdoor seating and other essential accessories into your playground provides functionality and accessibility. Let’s explore the indispensable accessories that complete your playground area, focusing on outdoor seating...
Are you dreaming of creating a vibrant and engaging playground or installing cutting-edge sports and outdoor gym equipment in your community? The idea itself is exciting, but the prospect of securing funding can seem daunting. That's where 4Grants comes in, and we at Caloo are thrilled to partner with them to streamline the process of applying for funding for playgrounds,...
Safety surfacing is a critical component of any playground. It ensures children's well-being and enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of play areas. At Caloo, we specialise in various safety surfacing solutions that cater to different needs and preferences. Let’s explore the importance of safety surfacing for playgrounds and address common questions to help you make informed decisions. What is...
Encouraging and nurturing every child's creativity and imagination is fundamental to their development and growth. Exploring the transformative role of themed playground equipment shines a light on its importance in fostering creativity and imagination, vital aspects of childhood development. By offering environments that stimulate the senses and invite exploration, themed playgrounds provide a unique opportunity for children to expand their...
When it comes to choosing a playground equipment supplier, reliability is key. A trustworthy supplier ensures not just quality products but also safety, durability, and a positive experience for your community. Here's what to look for to gauge the reliability of a playground equipment supplier. Quality and Safety Compliance In the UK, it's essential that your playground equipment supplier adheres...
MUGAs are fantastic spaces that encourage active lifestyles, community engagement, and a love for various sports. To truly maximise the potential of your MUGA and ensure it meets all your expectations, it's important to consider the accessories that will enhance its functionality and appeal. From ensuring safety and versatility to boosting user engagement, the right accessories can transform a good...
In childhood play, few structures capture the imagination and enthusiasm of children like play towers. These towering playground staples are not just a source of fun; they are catalysts for a child’s development and creativity. But what makes play towers so appealing to kids? The Magic of Play Towers: A Gateway to Imagination Visual Appeal Play towers often stand out...
Achieving fitness and wellness often faces obstacles such as time constraints and financial limitations. Consequently, the importance of accessible and inclusive fitness solutions becomes paramount. Outdoor gym equipment emerges as a vital resource, championing the idea that fitness and wellness should be accessible to all regardless of their circumstances. Located in public spaces, these fitness stations are inclusive realms that...
Inclusive playgrounds are essential in today's diverse society, offering a safe and enjoyable space for children of all abilities to play and interact. These playgrounds are thoughtfully designed to be accessible and engaging, ensuring that every child, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, can experience the joy and benefits of outdoor play. By embracing inclusivity, communities can create environments...
Play is crucial to early childhood development, offering more than just fun. It's a gateway to learning and growth. Multi-play units for ages 0-6 offer a versatile and engaging environment for this crucial stage of development. Benefits of Multi-Play for Early Learning The multiplay range caters to children from 0 to 6 years, featuring various units with different platform heights...
The modern schoolyard is evolving, with traditional playgrounds making way for innovative outdoor gym spaces. Caloo Ltd is at the forefront of this transformation, offering a range of outdoor gym equipment that blends fitness with fun for students. The Growing Trend UK educational institutions are increasingly embracing outdoor gym equipment, recognising its manifold benefits. This shift transcends mere exercise; it's...
In the UK, transforming public spaces with outdoor gym equipment is a growing trend, enhancing not just the physical health of the community but also the aesthetic and social fabric of neighbourhoods. Let’s explore how these gyms are reshaping our public spaces, contributing to a healthier, more connected society. The Rise of Outdoor Gyms in Public Spaces Originating as a...
Outdoor play is very important when considering the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. This isn’t just because children love the freedom of the outdoors, but due to the multitude of developmental benefits it offers. Integrating outdoor play with the right equipment can truly elevate the early learning experience. Why Outdoor Play is Essential in EYFS At its core, the...
Outdoor play is not just a fun-filled activity; it is a pivotal element in the growth and development of young children. Drawing inspiration from the core principles of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), we at Caloo are enthusiastic advocates for the myriad benefits of outdoor play. We want to emphasize its significance and the role it plays in the comprehensive...
In the area of primary school play, choosing the right playground equipment is not just about providing entertainment. It's about fostering an environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. At Caloo we take immense pride in our selection that amalgamates fun, safety, and learning. Understanding The Needs of Primary School Children Before diving into playground equipment choices, it's pivotal...
In the heart of landscape architecture lies the challenge of merging beauty with utility. When this landscape involves the vibrant world of playgrounds, the stakes are higher, blending children’s safety with the aesthetics and functionality desired by adults. Architect designers are at the forefront of this challenge. Here, at Caloo, we understand this delicate balance, and in this guide, we...
Playground design is a critical aspect of creating an engaging, safe, and inclusive environment for children to play, learn, and grow. It requires a careful balance of creativity, safety considerations, and an understanding of child development. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on playground design, covering essential elements, considerations for inclusivity, and safety measures. Essential Elements of Playground...
Inclusive play means that play equipment is designed to be available to everyone - and that access has been made a priority in design. Play spaces that are designed by schools and councils should be open to everyone, whether able-bodied or not, and it’s vitally important that all needs are catered for when creating these areas. So, what considerations are...
There are lots of different ways that we play as children and each one contributes something to our overall development. Adventure play - also known as ‘risky’ play - is vital for children in their early years. It gives us the chance to explore and expand in ways that we may not in other environments. In the modern world there...
It’s certainly true that in years gone by a playground might have just consisted of a slide and a staircase. There were few places where genuinely creative play was encouraged by equipment but that’s not the case today. Now, a playground can be a much more exciting experience thanks to the wide range of different designs and equipment that are...
Outdoor education has a lot to add to a classroom environment. In fact, there are many wonderful benefits to enabling children to learn outdoors that are really only found outside of traditional learning environments. And this isn’t just theory either, as there are studies to provide how this works. The advantages of outdoor education are many, including psychological, cognitive and...
The spaces in which children spend their time can have a big influence on development, as well as the way they feel every day. A well thought through playground design in schools provides much more than simply somewhere to let off some steam. The right playground design, with a carefully chosen selection of equipment, can actually be a space that...
The school playground is the ideal setting for children to start being active and exploring how their bodies work. However, research has found that while some children might do this naturally, others experience barriers that stop them from being active. The right playground environment can help to overcome these barriers and give all children the chance to feel the benefits...
How do you quantify the kind of funding that you’re going to need for a school playground project - and ensure that you get everything you need for the budget you have? This can often feel like a very blank page with not much guidance but it’s important to make sure that you approach funding for school playgrounds in the...
Playground surfacing can have a big impact, not just on how a space is enjoyed but also how easy it is to maintain. It’s also a big component in cost effectiveness and whether a great playground space is achievable on an ongoing basis. If you’re currently making choices about playground surfacing - or considering replacing existing surfacing - then these...
Being able to play has huge benefits for children in terms of enjoyment and freedom and acquiring social skills. Playgrounds can also be a big source of learning, somewhere that supports what children are doing in the classroom, rather than simply providing a break from it. In fact, playing and learning in the playground is a vital part of a...
Wet pour safety surfacing is an innovative solution to the specific requirements of many different play areas today. It is high quality, hard wearing, needs a very low level of maintenance and has very high safety standards. The slip resistant surface makes it ideal for playgrounds and play areas and there are lots of different options when it comes to...
The cost of a playground is always going to have an influence on whether it’s possible to build one - and what kind of space you create. Whether you’re working with a very specific budget, or you have some flexibility, getting clear on what you’ll need to spend is a vital part of the process. To help with that, here...
Playgrounds are fantastic spaces that can really bring out the best in children and allow them to explore themselves and their environment. But there is usually a point when a playground starts to look a little run down. Maybe the equipment is a little dated or you have safety concerns. A new playground can be a daunting investment but, if...
If you want to make sure that you keep your new year’s fitness resolutions this year then you have a big advantage if you have access to outdoor gym equipment. Getting fitter and stronger is going to be at the top of the list of resolutions for many of us this year - and for good reason. If you want...
Christmas is all about having fun and there are lots of ways to celebrate with Caloo playground markings. Best of all there are games that will work for children of any age and this is a great opportunity to bring kids together and start getting excited about the festive period to come. These are just a few of the ways...
Christmas is coming and it’s a great time to get together as a local community and celebrate. Local community playgrounds are the ideal space for this, providing somewhere fun and festive for everyone. The weather might be chillier but that’s just a great excuse to wrap up warm and get everyone to bring their favourite hot drinks to enjoy while...
Shared spaces are vital to communities today. Investing in outdoor gyms gives local authorities and councils a way to create opportunities to strengthen local ties and to give local residents a free facility designed for health and fitness. Not only does this demonstrate vital investment in the local community but it also generates return on that investment in the form...
Obesity numbers are rising on a global level - and children now make up a significant proportion of these statistics. This is very problematic for young people, as obesity can have a negative impact on children’s lives in many ways. For example, it creates the foundation for a broad spectrum of health complications that can be very problematic, from asthma...
As the winter begins in the UK, ensuring that playground equipment remains protected during the colder, wetter months is vital. Rain and cold can have a big impact and it’s crucial that any play area remains safe even during adverse weather conditions. So, what do you need to know when it comes to how to look after your playground equipment...
Multi Use Games Areas (MUGAs) are an incredibly versatile resource for any school today. They not only provide an area for play but also somewhere to host a range of sports and outdoor learning. A MUGA pitch could include a number of different features, from fencing and goals to storage, sports markings (e.g. netball and hockey) and different surfaces. They...
The weather is becoming increasingly changeable and heatwaves a lot more common. There are many ways in which excessive sun can do damage to playground equipment and affect the investment that you make in it. That’s why it’s so important to look into the steps that you can take to protect your playground equipment from the sun, to prolong its...
Halloween is the perfect time to play as this spooky annual event is much loved by children. From dressing up to telling stories this is the time of year when you can get really creative. Everyone loves trick or treating, finding the perfect costume and watching scary movies at home with lots of ghoulish-themed treats. There are also plenty of...
Communities all over the country have been significantly impacted in recent years. Whether as a result of economic shifts or the pandemic, there have been changes that have put pressure on local people and local ties. That’s especially so when it comes to physical health as well as emotional outlook and the way that we interact with others in the...
Community parks provide a space where anyone in the local area can come together, especially children. They are a vital resource in terms of delivering recreational activities and fitness options and providing opportunities to be active and interact with others. However, that’s not where the benefits end, as community parks and playground equipment also help to improve living standards in...
When you’re creating a gym using outdoor gym equipment the main objective is going to be to design a space that actually meets your needs. This kind of investment can be incredibly beneficial, wherever you put it. However, the impact that it makes will depend on how much thought goes into creating the space - and anticipating how it’s likely...
Children with learning difficulties can find many parts of life a struggle, especially when it comes to learning. All our brains are different and we all learn in our own way but there are some who are more different than others. For those young people, the challenge is often to find ways to engage them, provide options for learning that...
Equipment for parks can be a game changer for a local community. Investing in positive communal spaces that give people more opportunities to spend time outside can be transformative. That’s why fitness equipment for parks is becoming such a popular option across a broad spectrum of different areas. It’s not only a positive community focal point but has a lot...
Today, you’ll find Multi Use Game Areas (MUGAS) in many different areas, from local green spaces to holiday parks - and, of course, schools. Wherever children might benefit from play, having MUGAS can create options and open up a whole wide range of choices when it comes to activities and engagement. MUGAS work for people of all ages, and especially...
There are many ways in which the government can make investments that benefit schools and communities. Funnelling funds into playgrounds have a huge range of advantages, from improving fitness and socialising in children to giving parents more opportunities to connect. They are a simple way to create a very positive benefit wherever they are created. These are just some of...
There are many benefits to investing in school outdoor gym equipment, from encouraging more socialising and creativity to an increase in outside play. But where do you start when it comes to choosing, and sourcing, the right equipment for your grounds? In this buyer’s guide, we’ll show you what you need to consider when it comes to school outdoor gym...
It’s no secret that children today spend many more hours in front of devices than most of us would like them to. In fact, on average kids spend around seven hours a day looking at screens and devices, much more than they do playing outside. There are clear detriments to this, from the isolation it can entail to the fact...
Even before COVID and the change it brought in terms of outside activity, the popularity of outdoor play equipment was starting to rise. Today, with many more options to choose from, and quality customised playground equipment more freely available, there is even more of an incentive to integrate this valuable resource into a learning environment. These are just some of...
Put simply, an inclusive playground has playground equipment suitable for children and teenagers with different abilities. From wheelchair trampolines to sign language panels, every young person deserves to have a space to learn through play whilst socialising with others and building their skills. At Caloo we want to help local authorities, parish councils, councils, schools and housing developers create spaces...
Now more than ever it’s important for businesses to address the need for both recyclable and recycled materials in the manufacturing of products. Within the UK, the government have created a 25 year environment plan which aims to have zero avoidable waste by 2050 and eliminating avoidable plastic waste by the end of 2042 (1). Following this, we have increased...
According to NHS Digital (based on the 2018 – 2019 school year), 34.3% of year 6 children were classed as overweight or obese compared to 22.6% of children in reception years. Within the pandemic, The National Childhood Measurement Programme found that obesity levels within reception and year 6 classes had increased by more than 4% between 2019 and 2021 ¹. ...
New for 2022 is our KS1 education outdoor gym bundle which sits within our sports and active range. Specifically designed for children aged 5+ years, the bundle features smaller versions of our top selling outdoor gym equipment. We created this range to give school children the opportunity to socialise with one another whilst fulfilling their desire to be active. With...
What are the types of playground equipment? Outdoor play provides children with an opportunity to socialise and explore their imaginations. At Caloo we transform playgrounds using unique and creative pieces of play equipment suitable from early child to teenage years. Below we will share the types of playground equipment that we supply and have done for over 10 years to...
Traditional gyms helps users improve their strength and cardiovascular system through weighted gym equipment. A survey by Better revealed that 14.28% of people who would like to train find that traditional gyms are too busy so they are deterred to start/continue with their fitness journey. With a new pilot scheme run by the UK government to begin in January 2022,...
Best suited to outdoors, a calisthenics workout is great for exercisers looking to improve their strength. This form of training consists of a variety of movements which target different muscle groups and only require a person’s own body weight to complete. Whilst exercising outside provides you with a lot of space to perform and perfect callisthenic exercises, there’s a further...
As of the 8th March, schools within England welcomed pupils back into the classroom. 2020 was a very challenging year for all and in particular for children and young people. According to Young Minds, it is estimated one in eight children and young people have a diagnosable mental health condition which roughly equates to three children in every classroom*. When...
Please note: due to the current pandemic, the UK government have declared that all outdoor gyms must close. This blog relates to the use of outdoor gyms whilst there are no restrictions in place. Outdoor gyms are a fantastic way to encourage the local community to increase their physical activity levels. A great alternative to traditional gyms, outdoor gyms are...
We are pleased to announce the launch of our new App – Caloo Pulse. This fantastic innovation allows users to log workouts, track progress and favourite gyms and units at any of our gyms across the UK. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HILfaiXpKSY&feature=youtu.be[/embed] Available to download on both IOS and Android play stores – Caloo Pulse. Simply login, either setting up an account or via...
Children love nothing more than to role play with their friends or even alone, developing creativity and imagination through play. We have such a huge range of playground equipment with various themes, but we find that boats are always a firm favourite with all age groups. We have selected a range of boats which not only meet the imaginative play...
Music has always been a fantastic tool for learning and development with children, from creating a relaxing and calm environment to building energy and excitement, children (and adults) enjoy music at any age. We have found the introduction of playground musical instruments is a great benefit to any play area, the low-level instruments are suitable for all age groups and...
Sometimes it’s the little extras in a park space which can make a big difference. This is why our range of Youth Shelters or Teenage Shelters as they are also known, is so large to offer you the best choice for your location. [caption id="attachment_14195" align="aligncenter" width="300"] YS102 Rest Youth Shelter Thumbnail[/caption] A Youth Shelter is the perfect addition to...
There is nothing quite like exploring a great climbing frame as a child. A climbing frame can offer a host of different opportunities for children to develop balance and strength and work across and around the unit in their own time. Skill development is interconnected, and one unit can support multiple skills, a climbing frame is the perfect choice for...
Coming up to the Spring and Summer months, Sand Pits are always a popular choice for people to install within the playground setting. Playing in the sand has many great benefits for children of all ages and allows a level of independent play they can often not get from more advanced play equipment. The sand is such a tactile material...
We find that Autumn is always a popular time for Mud Laboratory orders, so we thought we would go into a bit more detail about the Mud Lab and why people are turning to this product over the traditional mud kitchen. Learning and Development Although not the most physical looking playground unit, children can still benefit towards their physical development...
We’ve noticed that quite a few companies are now adding tube slides into their office space. Being a supplier of tube slides here in the UK we thought we would investigate further! Company offices are often quite sterile and bland spaces. The standard desk, chair, cubicle space is frequently the norm for a day in, day out working environment for...
Playhouses are proving to be very popular play units for both residential and commercial purchasing. The variety and scope of “added extras” for a playhouse now mean that not only are they are fun to play in socially, they can also offer a lot for childhood development learning. Developing Imagination A playhouse was originally designed to give children a space...
Lately we have noticed an increase in the demand for wooden playground equipment. Although always present in the marketplace, wooden playground equipment has seen a sudden surge in popularity which has peaked our interest! Environmentally Friendly Playgrounds Throughout our lives there has been an increased movement on environmentally friendly products, from organic food to even electric cars, this development has...
Since we have sprung full force into summer this week we wanted to give you the top five reasons to exercise outside (besides working on that summer tan!). Endorphin boost As we know, when we exercise we release chemicals called endorphin's. These trigger happy, positive feelings and reduce pain perception, this combined with studies which associate being outdoors in the...
We are exhibiting this year at the Holiday Park Innovation Show 2017, Stand 2214. Holiday Park Innovation is the most comprehensive and interactive show dedicated to the holiday park industry. This is the only event that offers holiday park owners the guidance, inspiration, supplies, and resources to put your holiday park on the map. On the 8th & 9th November,...
Outdoor learning is key for childhood development, being outside not only increases children’s attention span and motivation to learn, but also encourages interaction up close with nature. Different areas of the National Curriculum can all be challenged through outdoor learning and Maths is a relatively easy and low cost area to develop through play. Here are some of our favourite ways to...
Recent studies by Early Years Specialist in Loughborough University’s School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences found that youngsters aged four to five were experiencing problems with balance and coordination which affected their learning ability. The test was carried out on 45 reception youngsters at a state primary school and an independent school. Problems were attributed to the lack of...
Today is the last article in our London Marathon Training series. The run is over, the finish line crossed and almost a year of intensive training that has had both ecstatic highs and real lows for our sponsored runner Jim, was concluded in one momentous day, making it all worthwhile. So, for one last time, let’s hear from the man...
Most of us love to eat – the tastes, flavours and usually something sweet is simply irresistible. But do you know what drives you to eat, what causes you to feel hungry, or, for that matter, what tells you that you are full? Scientists, working with Labrador Retriever dogs have found a gene that helps the brain to tell them...
In your teens you may have run around and played outdoors or ridden your bike for hours on end. In your 20s you may have danced and kick-boxed, gym-ed or pedalled your way to fitness in a spin class. In your 30s and 40s it might have been Pilates, yoga, Zumba or Tae Bo. But when you get to your...
We all know that there is a chasm of difference between the lifestyles of the rich and poor in Britain, but, according to researchers at City University London, despite the fact that they have quite different life expectancy, the gap between rich and poor has not grown above that of the 1870s – until now. In the 70 years between...
Are we a ‘sleep-deprived nation’? Shirley Cramer from the Royal Society for Public Health spells out for us what we should be getting and why. In an interview on the BBC she said that the average ‘slumber number’ for an adult should be somewhere between seven and nine hours a night. Do you get that much sleep? I know that...
We live in an age where the entire world seems obsessed with something called an ‘obesity crisis’, but what does that actually mean? Sometimes it’s easier to boil things down to the pure numbers to recognise the scale of a problem. My memories of 1975 seem almost sepia in colour, possibly even with a nostalgic cloud effect around them (a...
With just days to go until the 2016 London Marathon on Sunday 24th April, is our Team Caloo runner Jim ready for the biggest challenge of his life? He’ll be joining around 36,000 others pounding the capital’s streets, pushing themselves to the limits of their stamina, proving that they can do it, and raising money for their chosen causes. According...
August 2016 may be Olympic month, when all eyes turn to Rio de Janeiro. But don’t forget that the same city also hosts the Paralympics one month later from 7th to the 18th of September. Here, 4,350 athletes from 176 countries will compete for 11 days over medals in 23 sports – one of which is table tennis. Team GB...
With less than a month to go to the big day on 24th April, Jim’s training regime has intensified, his fundraising has entered its last leg, and his diet has started to pay dividends. Best of all he seems to be really enjoying the experience and while the London Marathon may be enough for most people he’s already setting his...
The taste of victory is sweet – just ask Paul Drinkhall, who, after a three-year hiatus, beaten each time by Liam Pitchford, is now back as reigning champion. The PG Mutual National Championships in Hatfield on Sunday was an important event. Not only was it time for celebration for Paul Drinkhall (winning the Guernsey Trophy and the men’s doubles title...
The average can of Coca-Cola contains around seven teaspoons of sugar – that’s 35g. Seeing that the recommended maximum sugar intake for anyone over the age of 11 is just 30g, this points to a problem that has led to a world of health issues. Campaigners such as TV chef Jamie Oliver have been saying for some time that something...
A mile – whether you measure it as 1.6km or 5,280ft – may not seem far when you’re zooming down the motorway, but for a primary school pupil it can be a long way to walk or run. So why are primary schools in the UK being encouraged to add a mile-long run to their curriculum (officially or unofficially) each...
