McDonald's adds gyms to restaurants

McDonald's is now adding gyms to some of their restaurants.

But are they gyms or just modernized versions of the McDonald's Playplace (which debuted in 1971) with a new label? With McDonald's new focus on a 'healthy' image in the face of pending so-called 'obesity lawsuits,' calling a play area a 'gym' just makes good sense.

Here's how McDonald's describes their new gym in their press release:

A Whittier, Calif.-based McDonald's restaurant opened its doors to the world's second McDonald's R Gym (at right), a dedicated in-restaurant play area that features interactive game zones designed for children aged 4 to 12. Equipped with stationary bicycles attached to video games, dance pads, basketball hoops, monkey bars, an obstacle course, and a host of other games, the R Gym is intended to provide a fun, easy and convenient way for children to increase their physical activity.

"McDonald's, with its wide variety of menu choices at various nutritional profiles, now also offers a variety of activity for children that promotes exercise and physical fitness," said Bonnie Modguno, registered dietitian and McDonald's consultant. "It's important for kids to eat a well balanced diet but it is equally important for them to play. Now, parents can bring their kids to McDonald's to accomplish both."

The R Gym features the Toddler Zone, an active play environment with age appropriate games that develop physical coordination and social skills; the Active Zone, designed for children aged four-to-eight that promotes physical fitness through fun play; the Sports Zone which features a series of sport oriented activities to promote aerobic exercise for children aged 9-to-12; the Parent Zone which features comfortable seating and provides an excellent monitoring area for their children; and the Dining Area which allows families to spend time together while eating.

via Blue MauMau