I think we can all agree that most sports and fun outdoor activities can carry a risk of injury. There’s always a chance that the cricket ball is going to hit you, or you may get tackled a little too hard. Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could soak up some sun and have the time of our lives without worrying about hurting ourselves? Well you can, and it’s called jumping on a trampoline.
Provided you’ve purchased some of the highest quality Australian trampolines, you’ll have nothing to lose. Whether you’re looking to tone up your muscles, practice your backflips, or spend quality time with friends and family, a high quality trampoline allows you to do them all, while being in the comfort of your own backyard. Provided that you’ve built it properly, a trampoline will be completely safe for both your 6-year-old son and your 80-year-old grandmother, that’s a win-win situation. Keep in mind that it’s still important to check for any tears or broken fixtures on a weekly basis. Regardless, where else will you spend a few hundred dollars and receive years or entertainment in return?
- Enhances your mood
In today’s society we tend to search mindlessly for the next fun trend or sport to keep us occupied temporarily. We go skydiving and do all sorts of other crazy activities just for a quick dose of adrenaline. However, it’s a little-known fact that simply jumping on a trampoline provides the same mood enhancing endorphins by increasing oxygen circulation, pretty cool huh?
- May be better than many other forms of exercise
Now who could possibly turn down hours of fun in the sun? No-one! Not only is jumping on a trampoline fun, but according to NASA it may be more effective than many other forms of aerobic exercise, such as running or cycling.
- Exercise variety
Variety is the spice of life, and nothing is more boring than running the same route each day, the monotony is mind-numbing and is the main reason why people find it hard to remain consistent with exercise programs. Well with these 12 trampoline exercises you’ll be occupied for months to come. Once you’ve mastered the basic movements you can create your own, the only limitation is your imagination.
- Can help build confidence
Parents with younger children will find trampolines to be an extremely safe way to introduce physical activity and build confidence. There is no right or wrong way to move on a trampoline, so they experience instant success which may boost their self-confidence and courage. For greater detail on why it’s essential for children to be active, take a look at our article (Link to our ‘Why is it important for children to be active?’ post).
- Safe for everyone
Now not everyone buys a trampoline for the sole purpose of exercising. Most parents simply want a safe way for their children to have fun outdoors. Play-dates become less of a challenge as having friends over to jump around is a lot safer than roller-skating at the local park. It’s a great way for the elderly to bond with their family too, given that over 80% of the pressure on your joints is absorbed by the trampoline.
Please note that even the best outdoor trampolines require proper installation and maintenance. So as a parent it’s your responsibility to do the following:
- Place the trampoline on a soft surface, like grass. Do not place a trampoline on concrete unless you have a layer of safety mats around the trampoline.
- Install the trampoline away from trees, fences, or other structures.
- Check the trampoline for any tears in the net or cracks in the poles before every use.
- Remove objects underneath the trampoline.
- Always supervise children when they use a trampoline.
- Never jump directly off a trampoline. Tell children to stop jumping, walk to the edge, sit down, and safely climb out.