Trampolines were an invention in the 20th century. The first version dates back to the 1930s, and it was constructed of inner tire tubes and scrap metal. Trampolines have come a long way since then.
Trampolining is even an Olympic sport. There was a type when they were found at gas stations and fairs. Today they can be found in backyards, gyms, and sports centers.
Trampolines come in various shapes, sizes, and functions. Here we will tell you more details about trampolines.
What are Trampolines?
A trampoline is a canvas sheet or webbed bed that is elevated and supported by shock cords or springs. This is all surrounded by a metal frame and used as a launching pad for tumbling. Trampolines are used in trampolining, rebound tumbling, gymnastics, for fun, and for exercise. The trampoline is used to rebound the jumper so they can bounce into the air and perform acrobatic movements if they would like.
Different Trampoline Shapes
Round Trampolines
Round trampolines are the most common and popular shape for recreational use. These are the best trampoline size for kids, but adults can use them, too. When jumping on a round trampoline, because of the way it is designed, it pushes you towards the center. This helps prevent accidents and falls off the trampoline.
Round trampolines come in various sizes, from 8 feet to 25 feet. Professionals do not typically use round trampolines because they have a lower bounce quality. This trampoline is mostly found in backyards. This shape of a trampoline is the best option for outdoor use. Round trampolines come in varying price points and can meet any budget.
Pros
- Ideal for kids
- The round design encourages safety
- Best for outside
Cons
- Lower quality of bounce
Rectangular Trampolines
A rectangular trampoline is a professional-style trampoline and offers a good deal more bounce than round versions. Gymnasts typically prefer rectangular trampolines, but anyone can use them. In addition, this shape trampoline takes up less room than a round one.
A rectangular trampoline has a different bouncing pattern than other trampolines. Gymnasts say that a rectangular trampoline has a spot where they can jump to get the best bounce.
They are also slightly less safe than a round version. When jumping on this type of trampoline, one has to be careful not to get too close to the edge. This shape of trampoline is more expensive than other shapes.
Pros
- High weight limit
- Used by professionals
Cons:
- Greater chance of injury than with a round one
- More expensive
Oval Trampolines
Oval trampolines are similar to circular ones but have a larger jumping area. These trampolines are a combination of square and round trampolines. Just like circular ones, they gently guide the jumper to the center. This allows the jumper to get the best bounce while staying safe.
In addition, jumpers have a good amount of room to jump from side to side.
Oval trampolines are ideal for being outdoors. These shapes are great for a large yard. Larger-sized oval trampolines have enough room for two jumpers. Some of these types of trampolines have double center points. This helps multiple jumpers to get the jumping effect while jumping together.
Pros
- Good combination of square and rectangular trampolines
- Ideal for a large yard
- Provides more area for jumping
Cons
- Harder to find
- More expensive
Square Trampolines
Square trampolines are a combination of rectangular and round trampolines. They provide the safety of a round trampoline with the bounce of a rectangular one. This option is more affordable than a rectangular one. They are a great option if you have a small budget.
A square trampoline can be used inside or outside. It can also fit into small or tight spots, which is not common for trampolines. They have a uniform bounce no matter where you jump on the trampoline. However, it has limited power.
Pros
- It has a controlled bounce
- Ideal for beginners
Cons
- Not a common shape
Hexagonal, Octagonal or Polygonal Trampolines
There are trampolines that come in polygonal shapes, like octagons or hexagons. They are usually high-performing trampolines. This is an ideal option to allow several children to play at once. Unfortunately, polygon trampolines tend to be expensive, but they are not a popular choice.
If you are considering one of these shaped trampolines, they require a large amount of room. The ability the rebound with these trampolines does depend on their size.
Pros
- Known for high performance
Cons
- These shapes take up more space
Competition Trampolines
These trampolines are high-performing and ideal for professionals. It gives them a high bounce, which lets them burn a good deal of energy. Therefore, these trampolines are mainly used by skilled professionals, gymnasts, and Olympic athletes.
Competition trampoline is made from highly durable materials and high-end springs to give jumpers superior bounce. These are expensive trampolines.
Pros
- Intended for professionals
Cons
- Expensive
Fitness Rebounders (Mini Trampolines)
A fitness rebounder is also called a mini-trampoline. They are small trampolines that are really bouncy. These are intended for exercise and fitness to increase the heart rate of the jumper. These trampolines are compact and can be easily hidden in a closet or in the corner. Some models can even fold for easier storage.
This trampoline is best used inside and is an excellent alternative to jogging. Many of these trampolines come with fitness trackers to show workout time, total jumps per minute, and calories burned. These trampolines are often found in gyms.
Pros
- Ideal for fitness and workouts
- Small and compact
Cons
- Not intended for kids
Trampoline with Springs
A trampoline with springs is one of the most widely used and standard trampolines. They are often considered to be the traditional type of trampoline. The springs are arranged around the trampoline along with the frame and follow the shape of the trampoline.
The length of the spring dictates how high your bounce will be. Typically, springs that are longer than seven inches provide a high amount of bounce. The length of the springs also indicates the amount of weight it can hold.
When considering this type of trampoline, you want to ensure that the springs are covered by a safety pad. This is necessary for safety.
Pros
- More durable
- More affordable
- It has a large amount of bounce
Cons
- These frames are not the strongest
- Leads to injury
Springless Trampolines
This type of springless trampoline has a structure that is spring free. In addition, there are fiberglass rods that support the jump mat. These rods are called stretch bands. These trampolines are safer than trampolines with springs.
A springless trampoline is excellent for children and adults as they have the capacity to handle a high amount of weight. However, these are more expensive than other models.
Pros
- Safer option
- Holds more weight
- Greater surface for jumping
Cons
- More expensive than other models
- Do not have as much bounce
Water Trampolines
A water trampoline is an inflatable trampoline that uses tubes and not springs. They are also referred to as a bouncer. These trampolines are lightweight when compared to other trampolines. It would be best if you had an air blower to expand the tubes, and they can be used within a few moments.
Water trampolines have attachments you can purchase separately, including slides and easy boards. As one person goes down the slide, it sends the person on the trampoline flying into the air. This trampoline is ideal for tricks and jumps.
You must put a water trampoline in water that is at least eight feet deep. A water trampoline is intended to float in the water. You must be a great swimmer to reduce risk.
Pros
- Great fun
Cons
- Limitations on where you can and cannot use it
Bungee Trampoline
You have probably seen bungee trampolines at camps and fairs. They are used for the purposes of fun and entertainment. These trampolines use bungee cords instead of springs to help the jumper to bounce.
To jump on a bungee trampoline, the jumper must have a harness that is attached to the structure. These trampolines allow you to bounce 10 to 26 feet. Unfortunately, this is not the type of trampoline you will have in your backyard.
Pros
- It is intended for fun and excitement
Cons
- Less durable
- Incredibly expensive
Enclosure Trampolines
Trampolines of various shapes and sizes may come with an enclosure net. Enclosures usually consist of netting that protects jumpers and keeps them safe. This is critical when kids are jumping on the trampoline.
The enclosure net comes in different heights, the typical height being about six feet height.
The enclosure net is protected from UV and tightly woven. The nets are attached to poles located around the trampoline. The mesh of the enclosure is see-through so that jumpers can see out and others can see in. A mesh enclosure is commonly and readily available. However, the net typically must be purchased separately.
Pros
- Provides safety and security
Cons
- It has a higher cost
FAQs
What Should I Know Before I Buy a Trampoline?
There are a few things you should consider before you purchase a trampoline. First, you should consider how much space you have to place the trampoline. Next, you need to know who is going to do the jumping.
It is essential to know if it will be a child or an adult. You also want to think about the type of trampoline that you would like. Finally, you should know what trampoline safety features you need, such as a hidden frame or spring covers.
Which Trampoline is Best for Me?
The best trampoline for you is going to depend entirely on your needs and wants. For example, if you are looking for something to exercise on, you want to consider a rebounder trampoline. On the other hand, if you are looking for one that you can use in the water, you might want a water trampoline.