A new starter bike track comes to Fleming Park, Eastleigh!

As part of a £169,000 upgrade to the outdoor play area at Fleming Park in Eastleigh, funded by contributions made through the Eastleigh Local Area Committee, we’ve installed a new starter pump track. The new track is one of several upgrades, including an improved basketball court and a larger space around the paddling pool so that more trees can be planted to provide shade.

What is a pump track?

A skateboard pump track or bike pump track is a looped circuit designed for wheeled sports like biking, skateboarding, scootering, and rollerblading.

It’s called a pump track because instead of pedalling or pushing, riders generate speed by pumping their bodies through up and down motions.

One of the features of the new pump track at Fleming Park is the small grooves and ramps that run along the circuit, helping riders generate speed. This is particularly useful for balance bike users, who needn’t pedal at all.

“I’m teaching my toddler how to ride a scooter, and the new starter track is perfect with its gentle slopes and curves, providing the right amount of exhilaration for my little daredevil.” – Mehrnaz Karimi-Clarke, local parent.

Is the new skate pump track safe?

Starter pump tracks are designed to be very safe, especially compared to more advanced skateparks or BMX trails. Families looking for safe, low-pressure play will find it particularly appealing.

While the pump track is for beginners, meaning the ramps are reasonably low, wearing a helmet at all times is advised, as well as adult supervision.

At Vita Play, we include the protocols required by EN 1176 and EN 1177, meaning that any equipment and surfacing we provide meets legal and safety best practices. In addition, we offer aftercare and maintenance as part of our commitment to safety beyond the initial build.

Pump tracks offer a controlled environment where kids can test their limits with wheels, trying out new skills without excessive danger.

The benefits of pump tracks

Pump tracks offer a host of benefits, including improved motor skills like balance, coordination, and strength, while also supporting emotional and cognitive development, such as managing anxiety and building self-esteem.

Starter tracks help children develop vital social skills, as they’re often used by multiple people at once. This encourages turn-taking and navigating shared spaces, which are common challenges, especially for younger children.

Modern pump tracks like the one we installed at Fleming Park are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring smooth surfaces, gentle gradients, and wide paths to accommodate adaptive bikes, wheelchairs, and other mobility aids, meaning everyone can use them, regardless of their ability.

A game-changer for Eastleigh’s outdoor paddling pool site

The new starter track is the latest of our contributions to the park, with the second phase including an embankment slide expected after the summer, when the paddling pool closes for the year.

Whether you’re learning to ride a scooter, balance bike, small BMX, or you’re just looking to have some fun, the new starter track at Fleming Park is the perfect place to build confidence, enjoy the outdoors, and take a healthy break from screen time. It’s open all year round, and you can find it located next to the revamped paddling pool and basketball equipment; it’s free to use, and no booking is required, so get down there and let us know what you think!