Trampoline Buying Guide
Not only is trampolining one of the most fun activities,
it also incredibly good for you. Trampolining helps your heart
and blood circulation, stimulates your metabolism, increases your
energy and best of all is a low impact exercise so there is little
risk of injury.
There’s a huge range of trampolines catering
for everyone from children and big kids to keep-fitters and serious
athletes. This guide gives information on what you need to consider
when buying a trampoline.
The Basic Structure
Let’s work our way in. First comes the frame,
most trampoline frames are made of galvanised steel. This makes
them resilient and long lasting. However not all models are rust
resistant, so look out for this feature, especially if you are
thinking of using the trampoline outdoors.
Next comes the frame pad, which has to be wide
enough to cover all the springs. The springs or elastic bands
are usually made of galvanised steel and are flexible attachments
between the bed and the frame. The spring tension determines the
elasticity of the bed.
Finally at the centre is the trampoline bed, the
bouncing area. It is normally made of polypropylene and it should
be heavy and UV treated to ensure greater resistance to the outdoor
elements.
Age and Weight
Before buying a trampoline, you should always
check the age and weight recommendations stated by the manufacturer.
The frame, springs and bouncing surface are designed to exert
and resist particular amounts of force. Ignoring these limits
can be dangerous to the trampolinist or damage the trampoline.
Shape
The most common shapes are round and rectangular
trampolines. Round trampolines are ideal for young, inexperienced
and fun users. This because the design ensures all the springs
work at the same rate, and prevent excessive bounce. On rectangular
trampolines, the springs work at different rates to give more
impulse and higher bounce. This makes rectangular trampolines
an ideal choice for more experienced trampolinists.
Size
You need to decide exactly where you are going
to put the trampoline before you buy; indoors, garden, patio.
Check you have enough space for the trampoline on ground level.
But also check you have enough head space so you can bounce freely.
Maintenance
It’s a good idea to check the trampoline
before each use to make sure that it’s in good condition
without holes, loose stitching, the safety pad is in place, the
frame is not bent and the springs are securely attached.
However trampolines are generally built to last for years and
require very little maintenance. Most can be kept outdoors, although
it’s a good idea to get a trampoline cover to keep it dry
and clean.
Safety
Trampolines are generally very safe as long as
you observe a few simple rules. Here are a few of the most important
rules.
- Buy safety pads to cover the springs, hooks
and frame if these are not included in the trampoline you choose.
- Create a soft safe fall zone around the trampoline;
use materials such as sand or cushioning material. Keep the
safe fall zone clear from all objects that may cause injury
such as fences, toys and make sure that sufficient head clearance
is available; free of trees, overhanging objects, wires, clotheslines,
etc. You could also buy a trampoline enclosure to insure maximum
safety.
- Follow general rules like only bouncing in
the middle of the trampoline, never jump off the trampoline
onto the ground, and always supervise children.
- As with any sport equipment you purchase always
follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
|