Trampolines are popular back yard accessories that lend themselves to hours of enjoyment with kids all over the world. The trampoline was originally an apparatus meant to be use exclusively in gyms for gymnastics training. However, in recent years, the trampoline has become such a popular toy that the prices of it have made it attainable for many families.
Simply because the price might be right and because you have the space and children interested in owning a trampoline does not mean that your child is ready for a trampoline. Trampolines are dangerous toys that lead to injury and death every year. Before making the investment into a trampoline, it is important to understand the risks.
Originally, when the trampoline was invented for gymnasts, it was meant to help them train their muscles to perform flips and other complicated gymnastics maneuvers. Gymnasts would jump with large rubber bands attached to their waists to keep them stable and in the center of the trampoline.
The apparatus surface was created to catapult the gymnast high into the air so that she would have time and room to perfect her move. Trained coaches and spotters were always on hand, should she become out of control with her flip or other move.
The same trampolines are now available for purchase by everyday consumers. Families can place one of these “toys” in the backyard for children to enjoy. Yet, few of these families understand that risks and consequences involved with such a risky apparatus.
The trampoline available to the public is composed of the same surfaces and springs as the trampolines available in gyms. Just as a trained gymnast can jump six feet into the air to do a summersault, so can your child. However, it is very important to realize that these gymnasts using the trampoline always have spotters. Your child will neither be connected to a rubber hand retention system nor have a trained gymnastics spotter on hand to ensure that he or she avoids injury.
While allowing your child to jump on a trampoline can be risky, there are some methods to avoid serious injury. If your child is willing and mature enough to learn and practice these methods, than he or she may be ready to own a trampoline. Assess your child’s willingness to follow rules and practice safety.
If you believe that your child is mature enough for a trampoline, then consider purchasing a retention system with the trampoline. The retention system is, essentially, a net that surrounds the trampoline’s diameter. There is a small slit in the net through which your child can access the trampoline. The net serves as a back-up safety mechanism in the event that your child becomes out of control and jumps too close to the edge of the trampoline. If the net is firmly in place, your child will not be allowed to fall off of the trampoline. Since the invention of nets, thousands of children have been able to avoid injury, making the trampoline far safer than it used to be.
A final consideration before you buy a trampoline is liability risk. You are liable if your child has a friend over or if a neighborhood child comes onto your property and jumps on your trampoline and becomes injured. Consider your purchase from all angles before investing in the risk of owning a trampoline.