| In Spanish, el trampolin is a diving board. When | | | | middle. |
| George Nissen, one of the creators of what we now | | | | Other safety features are available such as |
| know as a trampoline, came across the word in the | | | | enclosures or nets to surround the trampoline. Some |
| 1930s, he adopted it as a trademark. | | | | are free standing and some attach to the trampoline |
| Trampolines come in all shapes and sizes these days. | | | | itself. All are designed to prevent the trampoliner |
| Professional trampolines, such as those used in the | | | | falling and sustaining injury. This is particularly |
| Olympics, are constructed from a galvanised steel | | | | important if your trampoline will be sited on or near a |
| frame 10'W x 17'L x 45"H (305 x 520 x 115cm), | | | | hard surface, such as a patio or deck. |
| attached to which, by powerful steel strings is a mat | | | | A cover is a good idea as it will keep your trampoline |
| 7'W x 14'L (213 x 426cm) made from black | | | | free from debris such as leaves and bird droppings. |
| polypropylene. This professional mat has slightly more | | | | Not only will it be kept clean, but the danger of |
| bounce because of its increased porosity and | | | | slipping on the mat will be minimised. An anchor kit will |
| reduced air resistance. Around the edge of the | | | | stop your trampoline moving around when in use and |
| trampoline will be a padded area. Additional padded | | | | will keep in tied down in the event of strong winds, |
| mats are available for increased safety. These usually | | | | which can cause a great deal of damage to |
| have their own additional framework for support and | | | | trampolines, despite their sturdy structures. |
| are placed just over the edge of the trampoline, in | | | | For small children, a trampoline ladder will help to avoid |
| case the bouncer falls towards the hard edge or is | | | | accidents when getting on and off the trampoline. |
| even in danger of falling from the trampoline. | | | | Trampolining is fun and great aerobic exercise for all |
| Home trampolines are often circular or octagonal and | | | | age groups. It improves co-ordination, balance, |
| come in many sizes ranging from 8' to 16' in diameter. | | | | rhythm and timing and is useful training for other |
| Some have a cross woven into the fabric of the | | | | sports such as skiing. In fact, it has so many health |
| mat, indicating the centre point of the trampoline. | | | | benefits that we will make it the subject of a |
| This is a safety feature aimed at helping the bouncer | | | | separate article. |
| to stay at the safest point of the trampoline - the | | | | |