What You Must Know About Trampoline Safety

Tumbling on the trampoline caught on like wildfire in theearly 1960s, and still enjoys great popularity today, butthe sport also still involves the same potential dangers.Trampolines in the last 45 years have gone from being aninstitutional or recreation center piece of equipment, tosomething that is found in many homes, in a variety ofsizes and quality.

From a simple, round trampoline of relatively smalldimensions, to the large, outdoor models sold for familyfun, every trampoline represents the possibility of injury,if not used properly, or if used by those not experiencedin tumbling or acrobatics.

Here are some simple tips to make your sure that you enjoythe fun of a trampoline, while eliminating many of therisks.

* Placement

Never set up even a small, exercise trampoline indoorswhere there is a risk of hitting light fixtures or theceiling. Outdoors, place trampolines well away fromclotheslines, tree limbs, fences, outdoor furniture, andother objects that can cause injury when someone falls off.

If at all possible, secure your trampoline by setting itslegs/supports down into the ground, thereby reducing thedistance of a fall. At the same time, it's advisable toprovide padding to a depth of 10" or more, for at least 10'around the trampoline.

* Clothing

Anyone using the trampoline should wear clothing looseenough to allow freedom of movement, but not the chancethat limbs could become entangled in extra folds. Jewelryshould be removed before getting on, as should the contentsof any pockets, and eyeglasses that are not secured by aheadband. If you do not have trampoline footwear, then barefeet are best, as socks can cause you to slip.

* Training and Supervision

No child or adult, should be allowed to attempt complicatedtumbling such as summersaults, when they have not hadadequate training. Incorrect landing positions can causeserious and disabling injuries. Supervision should beprovided for everyone who is learning to use a trampolinefor the first time.

Ideally, there should be someone on hand who can instructthem in simple maneuvers, and who is also versed in firstaid for injuries. Alternately, it may benefit everyone, tojoin a gym for a class in proper trampoline use, includingmounts and dismounts.

* One At a Time

The chance of injury soars when more than one person getson a trampoline at the same time. This can be the result ofcollisions, or upsetting another person's balance, causingthem to fall. Unless you are a trained "spotter", allothers waiting a turn, should stand away from thetrampoline while someone else is using it.

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Paul Johnson works as a software developer, often workinglong hours under great stress. He considers exercisecrucial to his health. When purchasing his own fintessequipment he researched all available products. Now he'swritten a series of useful articles on choosing (and using)exercise equipment.