Trampoline Facts

Trampolines bring exhilaration to the exercise regimen. It's the type of fitness equipment that makes for a potential Christmas present. But, despite its bouncy reputation, trampolines have a global history, a bevy of trivia and a few safety guidelines. Review these facts and considerations on buying a trampoline.

The Trampoline in History

In the 1930s, Greg Nissen engineered the modern design of the first trampoline.

The first televised World Trampoline Championships took place in England (1958), featuring Ted Blake of England and Kurt Baechler of Switzerland.

West Germany was the first country to host an international trampolining event in 1962.

In 1999, the agency that represented trampolines, The International Trampoline Federation merged with the Fédération Internationale De Gymnastique.

In 1999, prior to the 2000 Sydney Games, the trampoline became an official Olympic sport.

Trampoline Trivia

On today's professional grade trampoline, athletes can propel up to 30-feet.

In the Olympics, a minimum of 10 contact-combinations, resulting in one of four landing positions (feet, front, back or seat) is a guideline of competitive trampolining.

The most popular Olympic trampoline routines include three shapes: tucked, piked and straight.

Competitive trampolining requires that all routines begin and end on the feet.

Trampoline Specs

The dimensions of a trampoline vary between 6- and 17-feet.

Generally, trampolines are available in a handful of shapes: octagonal, square, round, oval or rectangular.

A round, 15-foot trampoline has anywhere between 70 and 96 springs.

Rectangular-shaped trampolines are normally found in fitness clubs as well as athletic associations and are used for competitive trampolining.

The higher the number of springs, the higher the bounce and jump.

Trampoline Safety

Never jump on a trampoline when it's raining or during gusty wind conditions.

The simultaneous action of two people jumping on a trampoline is a serious no-no. More than 70 percent of all injuries are the cause of dual jumping.

Never bounce off a trampoline onto another surface and vice versa.

For safety reasons, trampolining should always be done with the guidance or supervision of a personal trainer.

Trampoline Buying Tips

Prior to buying a new or used trampoline, use the following buying tips to help finalize the purchase decision:

Safety, size and placement are three important considerations to make before buying a trampoline.

The ideal terrain for a trampoline is soft and level.

The ultimate space for a trampoline has a minimum of 3-feet of clear ground space and an overhead clearance of 25-foot.

To ensure safety, a mesh ring serves as a "safety net" and is an essential accessory to buy with a trampoline.

Consider frame pads to cover the entire spring system and minimize accidents.

For trampolines stored outdoors, vinyl covers are recommended.

Circular shaped trampolines are considered better for injury prevention. Since they are designed to keep the jumper centered on the apparatus, they tend to be safer.