What You Must Know About Trampoline Safety
Tumbling on the trampoline caught on like wildfire in the
early 1960s, and still enjoys great popularity today, but
the sport also still involves the same potential dangers.
Trampolines in the last 45 years have gone from being an
institutional or recreation center piece of equipment, to
something that is found in many homes, in a variety of
sizes and quality.
From a simple, round trampoline of relatively small
dimensions, to the large, outdoor models sold for family
fun, every trampoline represents the possibility of injury,
if not used properly, or if used by those not experienced
in tumbling or acrobatics.
Here are some simple tips to make your sure that you enjoy
the fun of a trampoline, while eliminating many of the
risks.
* Placement
Never set up even a small, exercise trampoline indoors
where there is a risk of hitting light fixtures or the
ceiling. Outdoors, place trampolines well away from
clotheslines, tree limbs, fences, outdoor furniture, and
other objects that can cause injury when someone falls off.
If at all possible, secure your trampoline by setting its
legs/supports down into the ground, thereby reducing the
distance of a fall. At the same time, it's advisable to
provide padding to a depth of 10" or more, for at least 10'
around the trampoline.
* Clothing
Anyone using the trampoline should wear clothing loose
enough to allow freedom of movement, but not the chance
that limbs could become entangled in extra folds.
Jewelry
should be removed before getting on, as should the contents
of any pockets, and eyeglasses that are not secured by a
headband. If you do not have trampoline footwear, then bare
feet are best, as socks can cause you to slip.
* Training and Supervision
No child or adult, should be allowed to attempt complicated
tumbling such as summersaults, when they have not had
adequate training. Incorrect landing positions can cause
serious and disabling injuries. Supervision should be
provided for everyone who is learning to use a trampoline
for the first time.
Ideally, there should be someone on hand who can instruct
them in simple maneuvers, and who is also versed in first
aid for injuries. Alternately, it may benefit everyone, to
join a gym for a class in proper trampoline use, including
mounts and dismounts.
* One At a Time
The chance of injury soars when more than one person gets
on a trampoline at the same time. This can be the result of
collisions, or upsetting another person's balance, causing
them to fall. Unless you are a trained "spotter", all
others waiting a turn, should stand away from the
trampoline while someone else is using it.
About the Author
Paul Johnson works as a software developer, often working
long hours under great stress. He considers exercise
crucial to his health. When purchasing his own fintess
equipment he researched all available products. Now he's
written a series of useful articles on choosing (and using)
exercise equipment.
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