Trend: Minor Movement

It’s hardly breaking news that kids no longer run around and play outside. Blame it on whatever (video games, obesity, Dateline) — the sad reality is that now, playtime has to be scheduled. Local entrepreneurs are opening up places to do just that.

By Ashley Primis

: Photo Courtesy of Play On

Varsity Fitness

After-school programs (including homework help), private sessions, athletic conditioning, top-notch equipment and Dance Dance Revolution make this Main Line gym parent- and kid-friendly. 913 Montgomery Avenue, Penn Valley, 610-668-4333, varsityfitnessclub.com.

Play On

Former Sixers owner Harold Katz recently opened this Huntington Valley center, with play sessions and noncompetitive group classes for ages three through 18, a climbing wall and two return-any-ball Sportswalls, dance and karate, plus cooking and nutrition classes. 2080 County Line Road, Huntingdon Valley, 877-PLAY-ON-0, my-playon.com.

Growing Healthy

This Downingtown gym offers classes that focus on fitness, coordination and nutrition (for preschoolers and up), tyke-size weight-equipment, virtual reality bikes, and mother-daughter classes. 467 Donofrio Drive, Downingtown, 484-883-2509, growinghealthynow.com.

Philly Kids Gym

More Romper Room than Jack LaLanne, 8,000 square feet of city space are dedicated to gymnastics, dance (from salsa to ballet) and art, for newborns to 12-year-olds. 604 South 9th Street, 215-627-3934, phillykidsgym.com.