The very basic swing sets still exist, but are hardly ever seen any longer, given that there are so many extra swing set accessories that can be added. If you're ready and able to pay for these extras, then there are an almost infinite number of permutations you can create for a backyard set.
Leaving the mechanical fastenings aside, the real joy of swing set accessories comes when you begin to add the extra play areas. You can create a swing and slide combination at one end, and balance it on the other end with a fort reached by a ladder or climbing wall.
Throw in a wall of ropes between the two, add a punching bag or a hanging tire, and you've only just started to create a play set that still has room for further additions. If you have a mind to do it, you can make this a swing complex, rather than a mere swing set.
This is the great feature of the newest generation of swing sets; you can expand them beyond the simple "swing set" category and turn them into virtual swing sets and gyms.
Make them varied and interesting, and your kids will hardly realize they're exercising and getting into good physical shape. The basic swings have always been excellent exercise, but it's now the swing set accessories that raise them to another level entirely.
To read more Adding Extra Play Areas With Swing Set Accessories
