Trampoline

What is a Trampoline?

A trampoline is a fun, bouncy device made from strong fabric stretched tightly over a steel frame. Many coiled springs connect the fabric to the frame, letting people jump up and down in an exciting way. Trampolines are used for both play and sport, giving people a great way to stay active and have fun.

A youth bouncing on a trampoline

The part of the trampoline where people bounce is called the "bounce mat" or "trampoline bed." It isn’t stretchy by itself — the springs store energy that lets people bounce high and land softly. This makes trampolines popular in homes, gyms, and competitions alike.

People enjoy using trampolines for many reasons, from simple recreation to training in gymnastics. They offer a unique way to build strength, balance, and coordination while enjoying the thrill of flight!

A Long History

Long ago, people played a game like bouncing on trampolines. The Inuit people would toss blanket dancers into the air using a walrus skin during a spring celebration. In Europe, people were sometimes tossed into the air using blankets held by others.

In the early 1900s, some acrobats used small bouncing beds covered with bedclothes to entertain audiences with comedy routines. The first modern trampoline was made by George Nissen and Larry Griswold in 1936. Both were athletes at the University of Iowa in the United States. They noticed trapeze artists using nets for safety and decided to stretch a piece of canvas with metal rings to a frame using springs.

Fun and Sport

Trampolines are also used in sports like Slamball, a version of basketball, and Bossaball, a version of volleyball. Skilled athletes can bounce up to 10 metres high, performing many flips and twists. Trampolines became an Olympic sport in 2000.

Trampolines are used to train athletes in other sports like diving, gymnastics, and freestyle skiing. It allows athletes to practice moves quickly and safely, without the need for hills, ramps, or high platforms.

Small and Safe

Mini-trampolines, also called rebounders, are small trampolines. They are less than 1 metre across and about 30 centimetres high. People often keep these indoors and use them to stay fit. This type of exercise is gentle on the knees and joints. Many big stores sell mini-trampolines.

Using a trampoline can be risky. It is best to have only one person jump at a time to avoid bumping into each other. Trying tricks like somersaults without training can be dangerous. Safety nets can help, but they do not prevent all injuries. Wearing special socks that help your feet stick to the trampoline can make bouncing safer.