Opportunities to play steadily diminish the older you get, but while playgrounds and softplays remain the exclusive domain of young folk, Edinburgh Leisure's latest venture invites anyone over the age of six to (re)discover the joys of scampering.

An interlocking inflatable assault course on water, AquaDash has landed at Edinburgh's Royal Commonwealth Pool with a splash. From the poolside, the colourful plastic screams 'fun', and as the excitable queues form post-safety talk and lifejacket fitting, it's clear we're all bursting to jump into the pool and get started.

What everyone, regardless of age or strength quickly realises, however, is that AquaDash is as challenging as it is entertaining. Whether you're trying to traverse an angled wall, walk gingerly over floating platforms or run up a mini hill, strong arms and concentration are your new best friends.

Although billed by Edinburgh Leisure as 'suitable for all fitness levels', if you can't lift your own body weight relatively easily, then prepare to spend more time in the water than out of it.

Falling in is, of course, part of the fun – and during the 50-minute session, everyone is constantly in and out, largely due to the incredibly slippery surface. You quickly learn that s/he who hesitates is lost, and that grabbing the rings (much like climbing holds) and just going for it is the key to success.

As with most things, the kids are infinitely better at it than the adults, so take your steer from them.

AquaDash is at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, Edinburgh on Saturdays and Sundays during term time and Mondays, Fridays and Sundays during school holidays. Adults: £7.50, Children £5 (includes access to pool afterwards).