While developing my trailbuilding skills at a park in Bridgewater, NJ, I got wind of pump tracks. After viewing a few YouTube videos on actual yard and public set-ups it became a curiosity as to why every family who has a children and a yard doesn't build one.  They’re economical, low maintenance, lots of fun, environmentally friendly, keeps the family close to home, can look awesome,  and they make great for overall fitness.  The Long Island Green Dome is scheduled to have this built in Spring of 2009, and then this will be later added to the Ostional Private Wildlife Reserve in Nicaragua.

What is a pump track?

A pump track is a continuous loop that you can ride without pedaling. You gain speed — over 20 mph — by“pumping” (a combination of shifting your weight and laws of physics) rollers and berms. Most pump tracks are roughly oval, with cross-over lines. A few may contain gap jumps, and others use steep berms and smooth rollers to build speed and generate excitement. see one in action

Why build one?

1. Less maintenance, water and chemistry than a lawn.
2. Great technique and motor-coordination training for active sportsters.
   
3. Great for overall fitness.
4. Great for mental strength. Focus, discipline, confidence.
5. Keeps your beloved family content at home.
6. They attract neighbors and relatives with similar interests.
7. Hours of fun in a safe, healthy environment.
8. With a rock and flower arrangements in the infield or berms, It can still look really nice.
9. Pump tracks fit just about anywhere as little as 20x30 feet of ground.
10. They can be ridden by anyone. 

Want to help build the pump track at the Green Dome?  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Want to learn how to build one?  Here's a link to the author who inspired me:  Pump Track Nation