Here we are in the twenty-first century and we often forget (to appreciate) just how lucky we are. Not only do we have advanced medicine, both in diagnosis and treatment, but we also have technological innovations that past generations couldn't even dream of. Take for example, the situation I currently have, which is damaged meniscus in my right knee. A simple knee surgery can sort the problem out, but this is something that was impossible when my father was my age. Better still, my children may never need such operations for the simple fact that we now have technology to make advanced materials used in things like footwear and even artificial or rubber flooring.

In the distant past, mankind had to do with the few natural floor surfaces available, for example, grass, soil, sand, clay, and woodland leaf litter. Go back just a few hundred years and you can add manufactured flooring materials like concrete and marble, but they have one thing in common; they are both very hard and very strong. These are good qualities because that means they are durable in all climates and are not affected by wind, rain, sunlight or snow. However, for the people walking or running on those surfaces, children especially, their strengths can be painful. An all-round ideal type of flooring would be something that is strong and durable, yet has absorbing qualities to reduce injury from impact or constant use. Rubber floor covering is a relatively new product, but has become an instant success due to its durability, strength and long-lasting use. It really does appear to be the perfect balance between strength and softness. It is used in playgrounds, both indoor and out. It is also used for sports fields and many other situations. Its other benefits are that it be manufactured in any colour, shape or style. The benefits of rubber surfacing are many, and they almost always outweigh the slightly high initial price. For those who may baulk at what they think is an acceptable price, a quick glance at an injury claims settlement, in or out of court, for a child's head injury should help convince anyone that rubber flooring really is the best way to go.

Thinking back to when I was a child, we had a concrete playground, which eventually became woodchip. Neither was any good after the rain and the former stopped us from having fun confidently or relaxing enough to improve our football skills. Nowadays, the kids are so lucky that they can play and fall and play again. All because of a simple and sustainable resource that does not involve killing trees or disrupting the ecosystem.