Though trampolines might all seem very similar at first glance, in fact, they come in a range of shapes and sizes. They’re also designed to meet different needs: the trampoline in your garden, for example, is not the same as the trampoline in a trampoline park.
When comparing family trampolines with professional ones, it’s clear their purpose is the same, which is to provide a high-quality and safe jumping area. However, they differ in their height and shape and in the frequency of expected use, which is not a negligible difference.
So what are the main differences between professional and family trampolines?
1. Use
Family trampolines are designed for recreation, fun, and relaxation in your garden. Professional trampolines, on the other hand, are those you find in gyms and trampoline parks and are designed for sports activities.
A professional trampoline could be installed in a garden, but they are first and foremost made for jumpers in trampoline parks, acrobats, and athletes who use trampolines as part of their training.
2. Size
Professional trampolines are often used for various jumps, tricks, and stunts, so for safety reasons, they need to provide a large jumping area. That’s why they’re generally bigger than family trampolines.
However, family trampolines also come in different sizes, so you can choose one according to your needs that will also fit perfectly in your garden.
3. Jumping mat
The jumping mat is the heart of every trampoline, so it’s no surprise there’s a considerable difference between family and professional ones. Professional jumping mats have a better bounce and rebound performance.
Their professional design guarantees up to 30% better bounce and tears resistance. This means that on a professional trampoline, you can safely jump much higher and perform a wider range of stunts.
Since jumpers can jump quite a lot higher on a professional trampoline, safety padding around the frame edge on professional trampolines are thicker than those on family trampolines.
4. Springs
A good jumping mat needs high-quality springs. Springs influence the bounce, so it’s important they have the right tension and are made of high-quality materials.
The springs on family trampolines are slightly shorter and are placed further apart than those on professional trampolines.
Springs on professional trampolines are placed closer together, which is why they are quieter and provide a better bounce with minimum impact on the body. Furthermore, they remain elastic for years despite constant stretching and retracting.
5. Frame
All trampolines, be they professional or family, should be made of the highest-quality materials that guarantee durability and long-term use. High-quality trampolines have a frame made of hot-galvanized steel with a strong zinc coating that is both rust- and damage-resistant.
Professional trampolines have a double bar reinforced frame that provides you with better stability and the maximum durability that is required for professional use. Such trampolines provide long-lasting trampolining without breaking.
6. Shape
Both family and professional trampolines come in various shapes. Most family trampolines are round or rectangular and most professional trampolines are round, rectangular, or hexagonal.
Families with children usually purchase free-standing family trampolines as no digging into the ground is needed. However, a safety net in such a case is a must. In recent years, in-ground trampolines have become more popular as they are an aesthetically pleasing addition to your garden.
But when it comes to professional trampolines, the opposite is true. In-ground trampolines are much more popular, as they are more practical for both public and professional use. A safety net is not necessary, since jumping on in-ground trampolines, provided all safety measures are followed, is safe even without one.
7. Price
Professional trampolines are generally more expensive, as they’re made of more durable materials that guarantee a lot of jumping and long-term use. However, this doesn’t mean that family trampolines are of lower quality. Family trampolines are designed so that all the users’ needs are satisfied for a reasonable price.
The quality of trampolines also depends on the manufacturer. When purchasing your very own trampoline, it is very important you research the wide range available on the market, whether you’re interested in family or professional trampolines. Whether or not to install a professional trampoline in your garden is entirely up to you and mainly depends on your needs and wishes.
Discover our ultimate guide where we compile all the essential details you require to find the ideal trampoline tailored to your specific needs.
