A backyard trampoline is more than just a fun activity to do. It is also an excellent investment for families promoting outdoor play, exercise, and bonding. The benefits are clear, whether it's kids bouncing around in the yard or adults using the trampoline for fitness. Trampolines provide a great way to stay active while having fun.
Why a Backyard Trampoline is a Smart Investment
The benefits of owning a backyard trampoline extend beyond just fun. Trampolines are an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise. They can even help to improve balance, coordination, and flexibility. For children, it's a way to burn off excess energy and stay active outdoors, reducing screen time in favor of time in the fresh air.
Adults can also join in the fun trampolines as part of their fitness routines. It's a family-friendly activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, bringing your family together for a shared experience.
10 Essential Trampoline Safety Tips For Families
To ensure your trampoline provides a fun yet safe environment, here are some essential trampoline safety tips:
1. Supervise at All Times:
One of the most important safety tips is ensuring children never jump alone on the trampoline. Supervision is key to preventing injuries. Always have an adult present, particularly when young children use the trampoline.
2. Limit the Number of Jumpers:
To avoid collisions or falls, only allow one person to jump at a time. Over 90% of trampoline-related injuries occur in children aged 5 to 14, and many of these injuries happen when multiple children jump at once.
Multiple jumpers can increase the risk of injury, as they may land on each other or cause the trampoline to become unstable. Establish a "one at a time" rule for everyone to follow.
3. Avoid Risky Tricks:
While it may be tempting to perform flips or somersaults, these tricks are dangerous and often lead to serious injuries, particularly to the neck or head.
Stick to simple jumps and encourage your children to do the same. Risky maneuvers should be avoided entirely.
4. Install a Safety Net:
Safety nets are essential for keeping jumpers from falling off the trampoline. A net at least 7 feet tall is recommended, especially for high-flying jumpers. Installing a net around the trampoline is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent serious injuries, and many trampolines come with nets included.
5. Cover the Springs and Frame:
Exposed springs and the trampoline frame can cause injuries such as bruises or sprains. Installing pads to cover these parts is a simple and cost-effective way to reduce the risk of injury. Ensure that the padding is secure and in good condition.
6. Anchor Your Trampoline:
Trampoline anchors are another important safety accessory. These small devices secure the trampoline to the ground, preventing it from tipping over during strong winds or bad weather. Trampoline anchors are easy to install and provide an extra layer of stability, making them a great investment for your trampoline's safety.
7. Maintain Your Trampoline:
Regularly Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your trampoline in good working order. Check for any loose springs, damaged pads, or broken parts before each use. A well-maintained trampoline is less likely to cause injuries and will last longer.
8. Create an Injury Plan:
It's always best to prepare for the unexpected. Have a plan in place in case of injury. Let your children know that you are always available and should come to you if they feel uncomfortable or hurt. Setting a designated family time for trampoline use also encourages safe, supervised play.
9. Remove the Ladder:
When Not in Use If your trampoline has a ladder, remove it when it is not in use. Ladders provide an easy way for younger children to access the trampoline unsupervised, which could lead to accidents. Removing the ladder reduces the risk of injury when the trampoline is left unattended.
10. Childproof the trampoline: Consider taking extra precautions to childproof your trampoline if you have younger children. For example, remove the ladder when not in use, and consider adding extra padding to the poles and springs to prevent minor injuries like bumps and scrapes.
A backyard trampoline is an excellent investment for families, offering hours of outdoor fun and physical activity. By following these essential safety tips, you can ensure that everyone—kids and adults alike—can enjoy their trampoline experience without the risk of injury. Always supervise your jumpers, maintain the trampoline regularly, and install the necessary safety accessories, such as nets, pads, and anchors. With the right precautions, your family can enjoy the many benefits of trampoline fun for years to come.