The dreaded gymnasium at school was the first time most of us were introduced to the trampoline.  Those of us with long memories can still hear the dreaded tones of the PE (or PT) teacher barking out the instructions.  Nowadays they are enjoyed the world over by adults and children and Gymnastics trampolining has become an Olympic sport in its own right.  In back yards, gardens and schools they are to be seen in all their glory and in every size and colour imaginable. Let us look at some of the various trampolines available today in our lives.

                        Firstly is the recreational one which for obvious reasons is the most popular and comes available in a number of sizes ranging from small ones that can be utilised by just one person to large ones that can accommodate several at one go subject naturally to safety precautions.  The recreational can be square, rectangular, circular or even octagonal.  They are designed with fewer springs than a competitive trampoline mentioned below.  They usually have waterproof canvas as opposed to the special woven fabric found in other types of trampoline.  A recreational trampoline is ideal if the whole family are likely to want to jump.

                        Secondly, we have the competitive trampoline.  This is by far the sturdiest of all trampolines yet at the same time is extremely light and can if required be taken apart and transported from competition to competition.  Usually a competitive trampoline measures 14 feet by 7 feet and the frame has roughly 110 steel springs.  These springs support a fabric that is woven from webbing.  All of this enables the athlete to jump higher and bounce higher and able to perform more aerobic and acrobatic manoeuvres.  A competitive trampoline also comes in handy for any skier, diver or snowboarder to train on.

                        Thirdly there is the mini trampoline which as the name suggests is smaller than the traditional trampolines and unique in its own way.  With a mini trampoline it is possible to give yourself a cardiovascular workout in the confines of your own home.  This type of trampoline is less strenuous on the joints and the knees in particular.  It is perfect for use indoors.

                        Finally and perhaps one that most people will not think about is the water trampoline.  This apparatus has an inflatable tube and usually will float in water.  It has to be said that water trampolines are made mostly for fun but anyone interested in trying them out will find they get a really good work-out from jumping high without any limitation on space.

                        The various trampolines mentioned here are all unique in their own way and are a good way of having fun and exercise simultaneously.

A trampoline is made from heavy steel tubing. If you fall onto this tubing you could sustain serious injury to yourself. However protection is at hand in the guise of trampoline pads.  They are a superb way of making a trampoline safer outside.  The pads cover the tubing and the springs.  

                        Known as trampoline safety pads they cushion any fall on the springs or the frame.  In turn this cushioning can help to prevent injury and additionally protection is also given to fingers and thumbs and any other small body parts that might get caught in the springs.  When deciding on the pads to buy make sure you do not skimp on them and even if they cost a bit more than you might have thought still get them.   A cheaper quality may not perform as well.  

                        Vinyl covered foam is the usual method of making the padding with the width and thickness varying with each product.  When you buy ensure the width of the pads cover the entire spring and frame.  With some manufacturers you may be lucky enough to get a warranty on your pads.  Should you be concerned about the quality you may want to get them from such a supplier.  

                        Apart from the obvious safety aspect the pads can also improve the appearance of the trampoline as they cover both the springs and the frame.  They also protect the springs from exposure to inclement weather.  Another advantage is that in all probability the padding will be in a much brighter colour than the rest of the trampoline and this will help make the edge of the trampoline much more visible.

                        Remove the pads when the trampoline is not in use.  If you take good care of the padding then this will help extend the life of the padding.  Keep the pads clean.    

                        Unlike most parts of the trampoline the pads will need replacing several times throughout the lifetime of the apparatus.   It is all dependent upon how the pads are cared for and of course how they might suffer during inclement weather that they will naturally be exposed to. 

                        Replacement of the pads should take place every year or so dependent on how well they are looked after.  If you get any rips or tears or if their fitting becomes loose then they need to be replaced immediately.  Safety first at all times.  Trampoline pads do differ in things like size and style and even colour.  When you buy new ones make certain you have the exact measurements so that the new ones will fit accordingly.

As we all know trampolines provide a superb opportunity for both exercise and as a family fun time.  A crucial element of the trampoline is the trampoline mat. Let’s face it the springs and the frame to which they are attached would not have much effect without a surface to jump on. 

                        Trampoline mats come in many different guises.  At the time you decide to purchase a trampoline make sure you thoroughly investigate the quality of the mat.  They are usually made from polypropylene or waterproof fabric or canvas fabric.  The bounce you get comes from the springs not the mat as some people might imagine.  

                        As with many things in life nothing lasts forever and the same goes for trampoline mats.  In due course it will sustain certain damage and require either repair or replacement.  The stitching is probably the first place wear will be noticed and this is sometimes due to ultra violet exposure and use and will happen prior to the fabric jumping surface wearing out.  It may be better to mend the stitching rather than replace a mat that may still have many years of wear and tear left in it.

                        Any small hole can be easily patched as a temporary measure and the entire mat has no need to be replaced in its entirety.  Any patch must be considered as a temporary solution and if any further holes do appear it is then that you should for safety reasons consider replacing the mat.

                        When the time comes to replace the mat the best idea would be to contact the original supplier.  Mats are easily found and more so if your model is still sold.  His will mean you will be able to get an exact replacement.  If not, no problem as mats are easy to find and even easier if you have a round trampoline.           

                        When replacing the mat ensure that all the parts of the trampoline are in good condition.   Have a good look at the springs and the pads just in case they need replacing.

One of the most important if not the most important thing about trampolines and the use of them is the safety aspect.  Selecting the best parts for your trampoline is extremely important as this will influence and impact on the safety of you and others using this apparatus.   Parts can be chosen depending upon the safety and storage purpose or you can select parts that will give some additional fun to the proceedings. 

                        The trampoline itself is simply a strong piece of fabric that is stretched across a steel frame that has springs.  There is a mat that covers the base fabric and it is this that helps you to bounce up and down.   You will find trampolines in circuses and firs.  They are also used for competitive purposes as we know from watching the Olympics.

                        Any trampoline accessories or attachments that you may want to purchase can be done over the internet website, like Madfun for example.  They are professional to a fault and give service second to none.  There are plenty of companies offering so called good deals but always deal with a well known name or manufacturer.  If possible check the goods before you buy them or accept an offer to return them for full repayment if they are not what you wanted.  

                        A frame for a trampoline from a professional manufacturer or outlet like Madfun will in all probability be given a 10 year guarantee on its use.  In some instances the warranty may be for the life of the apparatus.  Some manufacturers will offer free delivery for additional parts and accessories.  The latter will include nets, enclosures and possible net cushions. Trampoline safety pads can also be utilised.  Once again some manufacturers may offer these free of charge along with the main frame and unit.   Always get a trampoline cover because this helps to protect the unit against inclement weather that we do encounter throughout the year.  If the children are not permitted to use the trampoline at any time then putting the cover on will draw this fact to their attention.   If adults are not around to supervise then children must not play on the trampoline.

                        Climbing on and off looks easy on television when a dismount is performed but these are professionals and must not be copied by us.  The safest way to mount and dismount is with the use of a trampoline ladder made especially for the unit. 

                        Finally it is possible to purchase trampoline parts meant for fun and these include baseball or rounders equipment, bounce boards and tents.

                        Whatever you do play safe and enjoy this remarkable recreational toy.

The use of a mini trampoline is becoming more and more popular as a form of modern day exercise.  It is probably a throw back to those days when you bounced on your bed at home with your brothers and sisters.  It was great fun unless it got out of hand and Mother stepped in but all in all you probably remember it as a fun time.  The word ‘exercise’ was not apart of the everyday vocabulary then but even though you never realised it you were in fact getting good exercise all the same.  The rebounding was a brilliant exercise for the whole body and much easier on the joints as is mini trampolining today.

                        It does not really matter whether you bounce slowly or a bit faster, it will still get your heart pumping and improve your metabolic (another word new to the modern era) rate.  With the correct food you can help yourself lose weight.  If you ae serious about the exercise then take it a step further and increase your output by bouncing more or trying running on the spot.  Increases however small will all aid your health.  

                        Don’t expect to become an Olympic mini champion overnight.  Balance will be needed first and getting used to the trampoline. When you first get your mini trampoline just stand still in the middle of it and make slow movements to start with.  Wear sturdy shoes or have bare feet when using the apparatus.  Do not just wear socks as these will slip and cause you possible injury. 

                        If you lack confidence to start with place the trampoline against a wall or something you can support yourself with or against.  Just stand and there is no need to lift your feet in the air to start with.  Just get the feel of the equipment below you and do small bounces keeping your feet on the trampoline.  When you feel you can cope with a bit more increase your movements so that your feet do leave the canvas but just briefly. 

                        Don’t forget that everyone is different so whereas you may not be so confident or able to balance well for several days some of your friends or family may be able to just get on and start jumping up and down immediately.  Don’t be rushed just do things in your own time.  The same situation may occur when trying bigger moves.  Bear in mind that whilst moving on the trampoline you are simultaneously working out your muscles so depending on your physical condition you are doing nothing but good to help yourself health wise. The larger the bounce then the more it helps you.

                        Confidence to step up your routine will not take long coming and you might want to consider a slow jogging on the trampoline.  Do not rush into this if you don’t want to but in the words of a famous supermarket ‘every little helps’.   If you can master a small jog then after a few days try what is commonly known as a jumping jack routine.  This is simply jumping the way you do but jumping continuously and increasing the bounce as you become more confident.

                        The latter will seem just like jumping on a bed when you were young – which is where we came in.

In today’s modern society one of the most used words is ‘obese’ with sadly so many children falling into the category of obese and some one step further at ‘morbidly obese’.   Exercise is one of the easiest things to do to allay this but it needs to be fun exercise that everyone will enjoy.  Trampolining could be the answer for many.   There is no denying they are great fun and children of all ages thoroughly enjoy them.  Better still by just using them fundamentally by jumping straight up and down on them you are getting valuable exercise without realising it. 

                        Inevitably with children you cannot eliminate risk altogether from injury just minimise it.  Children unfortunately will always find a way to hurt themselves, its all part of growing up and learning.  We are of course taking here about the minor scrapes and bumps not life-threatening injuries. So what is the best way of making sure everyone enjoys there sessions on the trampoline yet stays safe. It is a fact that 75% of the accidents happen when there is more than a single person performing on the apparatus.        When there is more than one person of different sizes on the trampoline then if an accident occurs the smallest is more liable to be hurt more. 

                        Although adult supervision is paramount when children are taking part in trampoline activities accidents can and still do happen.  Having an adult present is simply no guarantee that no accident will happen.                         

                        Whilst we should always encourage the children to take part in trampoline activities we must be aware of the history because it lets us know what to look out for so that the future can be made safer.  Safety first starts when you buy the trampoline.  Do not go for the cheapest just to save a few pounds.  Do not buy a second hand one from anyone not even your best friend; always pay out for a brand new one and from a respected stockist or manufacturer.

                        One of the best pieces of quality equipment is the Supertramp or in the internet pages of Madfun you will find an equivalent piece just as good a quality.  You will only find a trampoline of this quality at a professional sports emporium or on the internet, look for Madfun.  You will be able to discuss all the safety aspects of the apparatus with the experts.  

                        For obvious reasons make sure the trampoline is standing in  a clear space and nowhere near washing lines, fences or garden sheds.  You should allow for at least 3 metres all around the trampoline for safety’s sake.    Place the item on a soft surface NOT on concrete or paving slabs.  Soft surfaces like grass and a special soft material as in children’s play areas in local parks are ideal.     

                        In professional places like sports stadia a British Standard applies but not in private gardens and back yards.  Good manufacturers have their reputation to think of and you can rest assured you will be looked after properly.  Any trampoline made for adults and older children should not be utilised by kids less than six years of age.

                        Always replace worn parts and make sure the replacements fit accurately.  When the apparatus is in use ensure that absolutely no-one is underneath and make sure everyone keeps clear.   Just have a few thoughts and a bit of common sense and your trampoline will fill you with joy and fun for a very long time.  Be safe.

If you are looking for a way to combine fun and exercise then look no further than the trampoline.  According to the medical profession trampoline exercise especially the rebound element is one of the best, healthiest and safest of exercises that you can do.  Your heart and your joints will all benefit from a daily session on the trampoline.  Forget jogging and the impact that has on your tendons and joints, trampolining is much more fun and it is aerobic. The rebound element referred to above simply means jumping on a trampoline.

                        The garden or back yard trampoline known as a recreational trampoline has gained in popularity during recent years and can be nothing but good for the children and has to be far better than sitting in front of the TV with the latest Wii game.  You can trampoline alone or with your friends.  Depending upon where you live you can use the trampoline to brush up on your snowboarding skills ready for the winter time.  A trampoline is akin to having a gym in your back garden.

                         Be careful if your friends come round and ensure you do not all get on at the same time.  If you feel you would like to take your interest a step further than join a local club for guidance.  Trampolining is now a fully recognized Olympic sport so there is no telling where you might end up if you are good enough but above all just enjoy the fun that this sport gives you.  Whether you are the next Olympic champion or not just wallow in the health and fun benefits that having a trampoline has.   

                        Having made the wise move to invest in a trampoline you will need a garden or back yard obstruction clear around the width and height of the apparatus and for several feet beyond that.  There are several different sizes of trampoline and you really must ensure yours fits your space and allows for the needs of it.  You can be sure there is a trampoline for you its just you need to be patient in order to get the right one.    

                        You will be able to purchase round, square, rectangular end even octagonal items but you will find the rectangular ones are usually made of a more durable material.  Their springs will be criss-crossed which enables the tension to be drawn in a more even manner.  This in turn creates a more even and uniform surface for jumping on.      

                        Circular or round trampolines have their springs around the perimeter of the apparatus making the exact centre the only real place to bounce on.  Any jumping outside of the centre spot will mean you will find t much harder to keep your balance with the consequence of falling more.  Round trampolines have a lighter frame than other trampolines meaning they come cheaper to buy.

                        In all probability the trampoline will be used by children so heed the warding of some children’s safety experts that warn against purchasing standard trampolines because of the chance of getting fingers caught in the springs or the child falling off the trampoline.   It is possible to get special trampolines for children and these will utilise a different type of spring.  You can also buy nets and have apparatus with non-slip surfaces for children’s trampolines.

                        Above all, enjoy your trampoline but be safe.  It really is great fun.

Since the 1960’s trampolines have gained in popularity.  In the early days the main trampoline was the rectangular one that was used in schools in those interminable PE lessons that most of us detested so much.  Nowadays it is possible to purchase anything from a small round one ideal for a small child up to a magnificent larger model for anyone lucky enough to have a large garden.  The important thing to remember though is that whatever size you have then the apparatus can be dangerous especially for the inexperienced.  Therefore there are a few key factors to consider if you have or intend getting a trampoline for recreational usage.

                        To start with there is the positioning of the trampoline in your garden or backyard.  Never get one that fits snugly into the area.   Always leave ample room not only to get on and dismount but you need extra space in the garden for other games.  You must also consider the area above the trampoline for those that can jump higher than others on the apparatus.  Make sure the trampoline if outside is placed away from the fences, hedges and anything else that can cause possible damage.  This seems fairly obvious but some people might take chances and it simply is not worth it.

Try and have a gap of some ten feet space around the trampoline to avoid any headlong diving into the bushes. 

                        Secondly children get terribly excited with the sight of a trampoline and all of them cannot wait to get on and start jumping around together.  Sadly the more may not be the merrier but it can lead to injury.  Even two of them crashing into each other can cause injury.   Therefore the rule ONE AT A TIME must be enforced and get everyone else to stand clear and watch not stand near around the edge of the trampoline.

                        Thirdly is the question of what to wear while you are using the trampoline.  It is possible to buy special footwear so get some as they are not expensive.  Ordinary socks will cause you to slip so avoid them at all costs.  Make sure your clothing is loose fitting enough to enable easy movement with no restriction.   Take care to remove all jewellery and do not have anything loose in your pockets.

                        Fourthly, remember that trampolining is superb fun and gives good exercise but do not get carried away.  Exercises that you may be able to do easily on the firm ground may not be so easy to do on the trampoline and should not be attempted until you have more tuition.  Incorrect landing can cause injurious perhaps serious ones. 

                        If you consult the internet you may find a local trampolining course that you can join.  You will be able to use all the simple and straightforward moves, getting off, dismounting and so on.  This is well worth it if you can get it.  

Although trampolines are a great pastime for kids of all ages especially during the summer months in the garden you must beware of the dangers that the trampoline holds if it does not receive proper maintenance and repair when necessary.

                        It is absolutely essential that maintenance should be on a regular basis and repairs carried out every four years at the most.   Trampolines even if they seem okay should really be replaced at least every ten ears.  Most manufacturers should provide you with a ten year guarantee so as soon as this expires invest in a new one.  It makes common sense.  If you find that the British weather has made the apparatus deteriorate sooner than the ten years then this is also a good idea for a replacement.  Safety first are the key words.  As soon as any damage occurs you must stop using the trampoline immediately until repairs are carried out.  

                        There are several ways that damage can occur and must have repairs carried out on it.  For example some of the stitching can be worn, some of the springs can be damaged or perhaps the straps may be wearing out.  Anything like this and trampoline usage must cease until repairs are complete or replacement parts are put in place.

                        It is also hard to believe given our summers but the sun can cause rot to set in unless the trampoline is covered when not in use.  This protects it from the sun and any other factor. 

                        Unless you are an absolute expert you should always seek expert help in the repairing of the trampoline.  Parts can be obtained from High Street outlets or from the Internet Companies.  A repair company can replace things like straps and rings and the mat can be stitched up securely to make it strong enough again for continued use.  Any faulty springs can also be replaced.  It has to be emphasised though that these are jobs for the experts and as already mentioned if you are not a top class handy man then call in the professionals.

                         Obviously in most instances the warranty will mean that in all probability the manufacturer will send their own professional firm to carry out the repairs.  If it is out of warranty then depending on the seriousness of the damage it may be a better idea to replace the trampoline with a new one.  This is a far safer option than risking possible injury to the children or boisterous adults.

.                       Properly looked after and with good luck your trampoline could last you successfully for many years.  Enjoy not only the thrill of trampolining but the stupendous exercise it provides simultaneously.

Mention exercise to a lot of people especially children and you will probably be met with moans and groans about how boring it is etc etc.  Ask them if they would like to use a trampoline and hey presto a different reaction immediately.  The truth is though that although the trampoline is an excellent recreational toy for fun and excitement for all the family it is also a magnificent option for exercise. 

                        However for safety purposes it is essential to select the parts for the trampoline with much care.  You must realise that some parts and accessories are made with fun and games in mind.  You will also trampolines in circuses and at professional gymnastic competitions. The main part of the trampoline has a steel or wooden frame to it and has a strong fabric spread across it over springs.  A mat is what is used to bounce up and down on.  This is the exercise referred to.    

                        In today’s modern times we use the internet to buy many items and it is essential that when you are purchasing trampoline parts that you ensure the purveyor is well known.  You must be careful that you purchase the best quality trampoline that you can afford especially if it is your intention to use the apparatus for any long duration of time.  Most good manufacturers will provide a warranty perhaps of a 10 year period for the frame.  Take it, accept nothing less.   If possible try and get a warranty period for the pads and mats and any other arts you can.  If you are paying for a really top of the range trampoline then the manufacturers may even include safety pads in the price of the trampoline. 

                        Trampoline nets, cushions and enclosures all enhance the safety features of the trampoline.  A trampoline cover will enable you to prolong the life of your trampoline and it also serves as a warning to any children that the trampoline is currently out of bounds and must not be used.  It is always worth the money to buy anything whatsoever that will enhance the safety of the participants and the apparatus.

                        Finally, for some trampolines on the market there will be the necessity of purchasing a ladder for mounting and dismounting.  You may have seen the professional gymnasts dismounting with one jump but this must not be attempted by the amateur in the back garden.  It is totally and utterly dangerous. 

                        Follow the rules and the fun is there - and the exercise.