Using a Big Trampoline for Health and Vitality
AUTHOR: Joan Menard
When you think of a trampoline, especially a big trampoline, what comes to mind might be a gymnastics competition, or even a circus act. And in fact, the earliest trampolines did originate by an artist, Du Trampolin, who saw the benefits of using a trapeze safety net; other acrobats used big trampolines to improve their diving and tumbling skills.
But these days, you are far more likely to find big trampolines in the backyards of suburbia, where you can observe young and old alike engaged in the fun of bouncing freely on them. Jumping on a trampoline provides a tremendous outlet for all that energy children seem to have in endless supply, while the not so young can experience many health benefits using a big trampoline.
Healthy Benefits from Using a Big Trampoline
Bouncing and jumping (also known as rebounding) on a trampoline has an impressive list of health benefits attached to it. First of all, everyone in the family can get their aerobic exercise this way, which greatly benefits the heart and lungs and improves oxygen intake. It’s also a great way to tone and strengthen one’s muscles. Jumping on a big trampoline can help prevent arthritis too, because it has a very positive effect on the joints. Bouncing also helps the circulatory system. Perhaps one of the biggest benefits is the effect using a trampoline has on the internal organs, though – it stimulates the digestion, for example.
Trampolining increases a child’s confidence and raises self-esteem. It aids in improving balance and coordination, and while they are having fun, they are feeling a sense of accomplishment. Jumping on a trampoline also raises their height and depth perception.
Could exercise be any more fun than this? The whole family can get their aerobic and even their strength training from using a big trampoline.
Some Safety Considerations
It’s important that the big trampoline you purchase is a reputable make. Do a bit of research, find out what is available, and make sure you are buying a trampoline that is well made and includes safety features like covered, padded springs, and a rustproof frame. You might want to consider purchasing an enclosure package for your trampoline, because this helps ensure that your children’s time spent jumping will be safe and injury free.
If the surface of your big trampoline becomes wet, wait until it is completely dry before jumping on it or allowing your children to do so. A slippery mat is a very dangerous surface, and many injuries have occurred this way.
And with young children, make sure that they are always supervised when using the trampoline. Most injuries occur when children are jumping unsupervised, so don’t just turn your little ones loose, even if you do have the enclosed version.
If you’ve never thought about purchasing a big trampoline before, I hope this article has given you some food for thought. With childhood obesity on the rise, here is a great alternative to watching too much TV or playing too many video games. Jumping on a trampoline is just a great overall family activity that promotes health and fitness too.