Trampolines are a wonderful thing, I don't know if you have noticed but in the last few years more and more people are getting a trampoline for their backyard. My neighbor got one a few years ago and every time his kids would come and visit the grandchildren would spend most of their time on the trampoline or in its environment.
Some people think that trampolines are mainly used by kids, that trampolines are mere toys for kids to jump around and have fun. People are beginning to discover that a trampoline can be used for physical fitness for children as well as adults. While there is a certain level of convenience associated with purchasing a special fitness trampoline, it isn't necessary to receive the benefits of trampoline exercise. The same kind of trampoline that is used by children can be used by adults as well.
Working out on a trampoline is very different from any other traditional exercise we know, which makes it a fun activity. The workout is even a little more challenging since most adults need to learn how to master the trampoline, and from my experience, what sometimes looks like an easy task may prove to be much more difficult…
The aerobics associated with jumping on a fitness trampoline strengthens the heart in the same way as other cardio exercises like running and jumping rope. This increase in cardio rate encourages energy use and weight loss. Spending five to eight minutes doing trampoline exercise is like running a mile, only with less time and effort. Trampoline exercise tones muscles in the lower half of the body. The legs, thighs, hips, stomach, and abdomen are all used when exercising on a fitness trampoline. The trampoline workout can also be a fun activity for all the family, it is fun to watch and once you learn how to use it properly you can also contribute your opinion, and improve the workout altogether.
Trampoline jumping improves coordination many athletes and gymnasts use trampolines for this reason. Jumping on a trampoline isn't just about bounding up and down. There is some level of skill involved in reaching a good height and landing in the right way. As I mentioned before, the mere task of getting the hang of the trampoline is a challenge, although it may take some time, once you get the trampoline basics in your blood, you will be addicted to it, and to the constant improvement in your workout. As you learn to master the trampoline, you will probably get higher and more energy efficient while on the trampoline.
A small trampoline, or rebound trampoline, is ideal for those who have knee injuries. Since smaller trampolines are not designed for high jumping, there is less pressure on the joints during exercise. Other benefits of a fitness trampoline include improvements in breathing through increased capacity of lungs, reduction in stress and tension, lowers cholesterol levels, and increases energy levels. A fitness trampoline is a good way to get exercise for people who have joint issues that keep them from jogging and running.
A trampoline is a great way of staying in shape and enjoying it, why not try to use a trampoline and see if its something you can enjoy?
About the author: John Furnem specializes in work psychology, stress relief and time management, after a stress relief seminar held in a gym John started using a trampoline for his workout, John publishes Trampoline advice on the zupatips.com pages.
Trampolines from Amazon
Action Tramps SkyWalker 14 Silver Trampoline
£399 from Amazon.
Action Tramps SkyWalker 12 Gold Trampoline
£489 from Amazon.
Action Tramps SkyWalker 12 Silver Trampoline
£335 from Amazon.
Trampolines from Sweatband
Body Sculpture 8ft Trampoline
£149 (with cover) from Sweatband.
Jumpking Popular 14 ft Trampoline
£270 from Sweat Band
13' Airmax Trampoline
£255 (with cover) from Sweatband.
Trampolines from John Lewis
TP 641 14ft King Trampoline
£399 from John Lewis
John Lewis Bouncepower 12ft Trampoline and Cover
£199 from John Lewis
Super Tramp Trampoline and Bounce Surround, 14ft
£700 from John Lewis
A Trampoline – Fun for All Ages
In Spanish, el trampolin is a diving board. When George Nissen, one of the creators of what we now know as a trampoline, came across the word in the 1930s, he adopted it as a trademark.
Trampolines come in all shapes and sizes these days. Professional trampolines, such as those used in the Olympics, are constructed from a galvanised steel frame 10'W x 17'L x 45"H (305 x 520 x 115cm), attached to which, by powerful steel strings is a mat 7'W x 14'L (213 x 426cm) made from black polypropylene. This professional mat has slightly more bounce because of its increased porosity and reduced air resistance. Around the edge of the trampoline will be a padded area. Additional padded mats are available for increased safety. These usually have their own additional framework for support and are placed just over the edge of the trampoline, in case the bouncer falls towards the hard edge or is even in danger of falling from the trampoline.
Home trampolines are often circular or octagonal and come in many sizes ranging from 8' to 16' in diameter. Some have a cross woven into the fabric of the mat, indicating the centre point of the trampoline. This is a safety feature aimed at helping the bouncer to stay at the safest point of the trampoline – the middle.
Other safety features are available such as enclosures or nets to surround the trampoline. Some are free standing and some attach to the trampoline itself. All are designed to prevent the trampoliner falling and sustaining injury. This is particularly important if your trampoline will be sited on or near a hard surface, such as a patio or deck.
A cover is a good idea as it will keep your trampoline free from debris such as leaves and bird droppings. Not only will it be kept clean, but the danger of slipping on the mat will be minimised. An anchor kit will stop your trampoline moving around when in use and will keep in tied down in the event of strong winds, which can cause a great deal of damage to trampolines, despite their sturdy structures.
For small children, a trampoline ladder will help to avoid accidents when getting on and off the trampoline.
Trampolining is fun and great aerobic exercise for all age groups. It improves co-ordination, balance, rhythm and timing and is useful training for other sports such as skiing. In fact, it has so many health benefits that we will make it the subject of a separate article.
About the author: Michael Russell – Your Independent guide to Trampolines
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