Trampolining is one of the most popular free-time activities. But many parents are concerned about the safety of trampolines before installing one in their garden. Read more about how safe are trampolines.
Safety of trampolining in comparison with other sports
The number of trampoline injuries is on the rise, but this is in part due to the rising popularity of trampolines and trampoline parks. Compared to other athletic activities, trampolining has similar injury rates.
Research shows that trampoline-related injuries are not among the most common childhood injuries. Contact sports such as American football, baseball, football, and softball result in a higher number of injuries, and some studies even list basketball, bicycle, and roller-blading-related injuries as more common than trampoline-related injuries. This means that trampolining is safe.
When can trampolining become dangerous?
Trampoline-related injuries usually happen at home, and usually for two reasons: jumpers not following the safety rules and the trampoline and its equipment being of low quality.
Top reasons for injuries:
- Research has shown that 75% of injuries happen when several jumpers use the trampoline at the same time.
- Falling off the trampoline: this can happen when there is no safety net, when the trampoline is placed on uneven ground, or when children climb on the safety net.
- Contact with the frame or the springs: usually due to low-quality safety padding.
- Performing extreme tricks and stunts that are beyond the jumper’s ability.
Injuries can be prevented if you use top-quality equipment and follow trampoline safety rules. A trampoline only becomes dangerous if you use it recklessly and if it lacks safety features.
Four reasons why trampolines are safe
Here are the reasons why trampolines are entirely safe.
1. Trampoline safety rules
This might be new to you, but every trampoline user should learn the trampoline safety rules. Those who faced trampoline accidents might be aware of them after their experience, but everyone should read them before jumping:
- one person per one trampoline;
- trampolines are not suitable for children under 3 years of age;
- remove your shoes, glasses, smartphone, belt, jewelry, and any other item that might be a risk before jumping;
- do not perform flips and other risky jumps;
- use a ladder to get on and off the trampoline;
- always supervise children;
- before jumping on the trampoline make sure the jumping mat isn’t wet;
- do not use sports props on the trampoline;
- do not eat or drink while on a trampoline;
- check whether the trampoline is equipped with all the safety features such as a safety net, spring and frame pads, and ladder, among others.
2. Trampoline safety features
The next important thing is a top-quality and entirely safe trampoline. When the trampoline design is safe then the trampoline is completely safe for everyone. Here are the safety features of a trampoline you should look at before getting one:
- a top-quality frame which means there is less possibility of getting injured;
- spring pads that will protect you even if you land in the wrong place;
- a safety net that prevents you from falling off the trampoline.
3. Additional equipment
Another fact that makes a trampoline safe is that it is customizable. Even if the trampoline you want doesn’t come with all the safety features, you can easily buy them separately. You can add a safety net, an extra padding layer, and other safety features.
4. Safety certification
If you are not an expert, then you can rely on certification. Different certificates make trampolines safe and reliable props. Certification means that a trampoline has been tested several times and withstood testing. Before you purchase a trampoline, check what certification it has.
Trampolines are safe!
When you get a new dishwasher or washing machine, it usually comes with instructions for use. So does a trampoline. Instructions for use are there for a reason - not only to help you set up your trampoline but to let you know how to safely use it. As long as you follow trampoline safety rules, trampolines are perfectly safe.
Discover our ultimate guide where we compile all the essential details you require to find the ideal trampoline tailored to your specific needs.
