BERG Jungle Gym Playbase - All You Need to Know
What is the BERG PlayBase / Jungle Gym?
The BERG PlayBase is a modular outdoor frame system designed to combine play, sport, and lounge functions in one structure.
Rather than being just a climbing frame or swing set, the PlayBase is conceived as a flexible “platform” where you can hang swings, rings, pull-up bars, climbing walls, hammocks, etc. — and swap them out as needs change.
Crucially, the PlayBase is engineered so that you don’t need to pour concrete footings. Its support frames extend underground and are backfilled, offering good stability while reducing foundation work.
Because of its modularity, it “grows” with your family: you can begin with a simpler setup (swings, climbing net) and later add fitness or lounge attachments.
On the BERG website they emphasize:
“With the BERG PlayBase, you don't have to choose. This playset effortlessly transforms from a swing into a fitness device. Then, after playing or working out, you can lounge in your hammock.”
Size Options / Frames
One of the first decisions is which frame size will suit your garden and intended use.
From Trampolines Ireland’s own page, the PlayBase frame is available in two basic sizes (though in some markets you’ll see references to three or even a wall-version).
Dimensions & footprint
Here are the most commonly quoted sizes (above-ground frame dimensions) and what they mean in practice:
Size | Above-Ground Dimensions (approx) | Below-Ground / Overall (including in-ground embedment) | Notes / Use Case |
---|---|---|---|
Medium | 285 cm width × 100 cm deep × 245 cm height | Including underground embedment: ~315 cm width × 350 cm depth × 295 cm height | Good for smaller gardens, or starting off with more compact usage. |
Large | 380 cm width × 100 cm deep × 245 cm height | With embedment: ~405 cm width × 350 cm depth × 295 cm height | More room for multiple accessories, simultaneous play or fitness use. |
Frame configuration (sides, monkey bars, layout)
-
The top of each frame always includes horizontal monkey bars / overhead bars.
-
The two sides (legs) of the frame can be configured differently: you may choose a ladder side, a tumble (horizontal) bar side, or a combination of both.
-
You can typically mount up to three accessories simultaneously on a Large frame, depending on spacing and weight considerations.
Because the embedment (underground part) is designed to provide stability, the above-ground frame looks relatively minimalistic and “floating,” which is part of its visual appeal.
Also, when considering space, it’s good practice to allow a safety clearance (1.8 m or more) around the structure.
Accessories & Modules
One of the biggest strengths of the PlayBase system is the range of accessories you can add under three broad categories: Play, Sport / Fitness, and Lounge.
Play accessories
These focus on classic playground uses:
-
Swing seats (wooden seat, flat seat, rubber seat)
-
Baby swing seat (for younger children)
-
Nest swing (circular “basket” swing)
-
Trapeze / acrobatic bar or wooden trapeze
-
Gym rings or wooden rings
-
Climbing net (medium or large)
-
Climbing wall / rock wall (side mountable)
-
Basketball hoop (attaches to frame)
-
Soccer / goal net (target goal)
These give a classic playground feel (swings, climbing, etc.), but because they mount via a carabiner or click-in system, you can change or relocate them easily.
Sport / Fitness accessories
These are for more active / athletic use:
-
Pull-up bar (turns PlayBase into a pull-up station)
-
Dip bars
-
Boxing bag / punching bag
-
Fitness rope / climbing rope / rings
-
Resistance bands attachments
These let older kids or adults use the same frame for strength or conditioning work. Some accessories (e.g. rings, trapeze) double as both play & fitness.
Lounge / Relaxation accessories
For quieter use or rest:
-
Hammock — you can hang it between vertical posts or between one post and another point. (Note: in many sources, the hammock is only compatible with the Large frame, not the Medium)
-
Nest swing can also count as a lounge option (a more relaxed swing)
How many accessories, and swapping them
-
On a Large frame, you can generally mount up to three accessories simultaneously (depending on their size and spacing)
-
Accessories are designed to be “plug-and-play” switches, often with carabiners or click mount systems, making it relatively easy to rearrange.
-
You can purchase accessories separately, mix & match, or buy pre-configured “sets” (e.g. swing set, sports set) from suppliers.
From Trampolines Ireland’s page:
“The basic frame is available in two different sizes and the possibilities are endless. You can now choose from no less than 12 different accessories, which you can easily change as you like.”
(The “12” may be an earlier reference; in many newer catalogs, more than a dozen are available.)
Advantages and Considerations (for your blog audience)
When writing for your readers, here are features to highlight, plus some caveats or tips:
Advantages
-
Modularity & flexibility
The fact you can switch accessories over time is a big selling point. The same frame can adapt as kids grow, or be used by adults for fitness. -
No concrete foundation needed
That reduces cost, effort, and disruption — appealing to many homeowners. -
Stylish / minimal design
The steel black frame with discreet floor embedment means it doesn’t dominate a garden in the way that bulky wooden frames can. -
Multi-use (play, sport, lounge)
It’s not a one-trick pony. You can run active workouts, let kids play, or relax in a hammock. -
Durability & warranty
The frame tubing is substantial (e.g. 9 cm tubes mentioned in some sources). Also note that some warranties are up to 13 years (when registered) for the frame.
Considerations & Tips
-
Space & clearance
The embedment means the “underground” parts take more depth, so ensure your soil and site allow for ~350 cm depth where backfill is required.
Also allow safe swing / motion clearance — many sources recommend ~1.8 m around. -
Hammock limitation
The hammock accessory may only work or be recommended for the Large frame (not Medium). -
Weight & structural limits
Each accessory has its own maximum weight limit (often in the range of 50–100 kg, depending). Exceeding that could stress the frame or connector.
Also, when multiple accessories are used simultaneously (e.g. three items on a large frame), you need to manage spacing and load distribution. -
Ground conditions / drainage
Because the embedment area is backfilled, good drainage and soil compaction matters. Poor drainage (water pooling) could reduce stability or durability over time. -
Cost of accessories addition
While the frame is the core, many users will want to add swings, walls, etc., which can add significant cost.