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When you think of a trampoline you cannot help but think of one word: bounce. It’s been around for over a hundred years and has been the popular choice for bouncing and jumping, whether it is used for exercise, entertainment, sport or just plain fun. Let’s take a look at all you’ll need to know about this fun, recreational device.
What Is It?
The trampoline is a device that consists of a durable steel frame that has a piece of strong material pulled tight over it. The material is hardy and has not elastic properties; instead it’s connected to a series of strong springs which provide the bouncing properties. When a person gets onto the structure and jumps into the middle the springs and fabric propel them upwards, resulting in an assisted bounce.
The trampoline has many uses, including recreation and competition purposes. In history it can be traced back to the Inuit tribes who used walrus skins to propel people into the air. The modern incarnation dates back to the early 1930’s when two American gymnasts George Nissen and Larry Griswold noted the safety net during a trapeze performance. Seeing its bouncing properties they experimented with canvass and springs to propel them. They came up with the name trampoline comes from the Spanish word trampolin meaning ‘diving board’ that they heard on a tour to Mexico
The Uses
The most common use that trampolines are most associated with is fun. Many homes around the word had trampolines in the back yard and they are a great source of fun to children and grownups alike.
In 2000 the trampoline became an Olympic event. Part of the gymnastics events, it allows competitors to bounce and perform a series of aerial acrobatics including twists, somersaults and flips. Modern day devices allow competitors to reach heights of up to ten meters. There is even and synchronized event where two gymnasts jump in tandem.
Jumping and bouncing is a great form of exercise and many medical practitioners recommend it as a great way to get a cardiovascular workout. Small, mini-trampolines are also available to be used indoors and are a good form of exercise for people with back problems.
Safety
Although trampolines are fun, there safety procedures that need to be followed so that no one gets hurt. Home trampolines have endured some criticism as children who do not adhere to the safety measures can be propelled off the trampoline leading to leg and neck injuries. Nowadays home trampolines can be fitted with a surrounding safety net which keeps children from falling off.
When using trampolines, it’s important to be in control. Regulate your jumping and don’t jump too high or you could lose control of your bouncing. Also keep people jumping to a minimum (preferably one. Too many people could result in a loss of control and the momentum of your landing could propel someone else from the canvass.
The trampoline is a firm favourite and can result in hours of fun for any family – plus it’s a great way to get exercise outdoors. |
