Safe Trampolining

How not to use a trampoline

Trampolines have quickly become the must have fun and fitness accessories. But as trampoline ownership has increased so the number of trampoline related injuries has also risen.

The UK based Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) figures tell us that, in 2002, 11,500 people went to hospital after suffering a trampoline accident. This number was a 50% increase on the previous year and has been increasing ever since. Approximately 75% of injuries took place when there were 2 or more people on the trampoline and the least heavy person is five times more likely to be injured. A particularly worrying statistic for parents is that young children under the age of six are the most susceptible to injury.

Injuries vary from minor bruises, grazes, strains, sprains and whip lash, to broken bones and far more serious injuries including paralysis and even death.

The Chartered Institute of Physiotherapy have published some common-sense safety guidelines that anyone owning a garden trampoline should be familiar with.

To avoid injuries they recommend:

1. Stretching before and after trampolining
2. Don't push your body too far when trampolining to avoid muscle strain
3. Control your bouncing and don't go too high
4. Never attempt somersaults or flips as awkward landings can have serious consequences.

Their twelve point safety advice for trampolines is:

1. If possible set the trampoline in a hole, with the mat at ground level, to reduce the distance the user could fall.
2. Keep trampolines clear of fences, trees and any other backyard or garden play equipment. Erect safety netting around the trampoline perimeter to prevent users from falling off.
3. Ensure trampoline has a securely fastened frame pad to cover the entire spring system, hooks and frame
4. Place cushioning material (such as wood chips, sand or soft lawn) under and around the trampoline
5. Check the wear and tear on the trampoline mat and springs before use
6. Use the trampoline only when the mat is completely dry
7. Children should always be supervised by an adult. It is not advised that children under age six use large trampolines
8. Only one person should use the trampoline at a time
9. Users should always jump in the middle of the mat
10. Never exit the trampoline by bouncing off - climb on and off carefully
11. Users should remove all jewellery, buckles or anything that might catch and should not wear hard shoes; socks should be non-slip
12. Never sit or crawl under the trampoline

Another key point that should not be overlooked is the quality of the trampoline itself. The current popularity of trampolining has resulted in the availability of many cheap trampolines that may actually be unsafe and not meet basic safety standards.

Always check that your chosen trampoline complies with relevant safety regulations and it's an appropriate size for your garden or yard.