Trampoline Safety and Injuries

Trampolines are basically comprised of a frame, usually of steel, over which a strong fabric is stretched taut, using many coiled springs. People use trampolines by bouncing on the strong, taut fabric, which is commonly referred to as the "trampoline bed" or the "bounce mat." The elasticity that facilitates bouncing on a trampoline is not the result of the fabric itself. Instead, this elasticity is the result of the many springs that connect the fabric to the support frame.

Although they can be used as part of a competitive sport known as trampolining, most people use them for recreational or exercise purposes. Since 2000, trampolining has been a sport in the Olympic Games. A competitive trampoline is rectangular in shape and usually has a trampoline bed that measures approximately fourteen feet by seven feet, fitted onto a steel frame that measures seventeen feet by ten feet. On these trampolines, skilled athletes can bounce as high as ten meters while performing multiple twists and somersaults.
Recreational trampolines vary in size and shape. Most are rectangular, circular, or octagonal. Some trampolines, known as mini-trampolines, jogging trampolines, exercise trampolines, or trampettes, are only about twelve inches off the ground and approximately one meter in diameter. The rebound provided by these mini-trampolines is not as great as that provided by larger competitive or recreational trampolines. Mini-trampolines are generally kept indoors and used for exercise purposes.
Traditionally, most were located in gymnasiums, where they were used under the close supervision of trained personnel. Spotters were usually placed along the sides when in use to try to break the fall of an athlete. Recently, however, more trampolines have been purchased for home use. Increasing numbers of families have been purchasing a recreational trampoline as a backyard activity for their children to bounce on.
As a result, the number of trampoline-related injuries has increased. Because of the increase in injuries, some experts have suggested that home trampolines be prohibited. To minimize the risk of injury, a retaining net may be installed around the edge of the trampoline to keep users from bouncing off. Further, pads can be installed to cover the springs. In addition, inexperienced and untrained users should be encouraged to bounce only one person at a time and not to attempt complicated twists or somersaults without training and supervision. With proper supervision and use, however, recreational trampolines can be great fun for both children and adults.

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