Safety First on Trampolines and Advanced Tricks
Trampolining is an activity which has always proved popular, from the back garden to the Olympic arena. We are drawn to feeling weightless, expelling energy and having fun with friends, bouncing and jumping, always aiming to go that little bit higher.
In recent times we’ve seen the rise of ‘Gtramp’ in which people teach themselves how to perform tricks in their own backyards. They don’t have coaches and rely on each other to improve their skills. Don’t be fooled by the fact that they’re not professional athletes, they still train and practice extensively and have some serious skills. Nonetheless, this endeavour can be incredibly dangerous. The unpredictability of this activity can lead to major injuries. From sprains and fractures, to broken necks and backs.
As much as we’ve heard inspiring stories of rising social media stars who have wowed us with all kinds of freestyling routines, we’ve also heard about the terrible tragedies. That’s why there is a need to hammer home the risks involved and emphasise the vitality of safety first when pursuing this home-grown sport.
Below are some pointers on how to lessen the risks, improve your skills and perfect advanced skills in a safe manner.
1. Understanding Peer Pressure
As childhood gives way to adolescence an experimental streak will often be unleashed. Friends become your children’s most steadfast supporters and greatest influencers. In many ways this can have a very positive effect. Often as we progress, our friends are there to champion our efforts and encourage us. Moreover, if they want to practice their moves it’s always extremely important to have someone there in case of any emergencies. Peers can also record the jumper so that they can review the performance. However, the negative side is that friends can sometimes pressure us. They can goad us into embarking on tasks we’re not quite ready for. Therefore, be sure to watch out for any signs of discomfort and teach your children to only do things they themselves are comfortable with.
2. The Value and Importance of Trampolining Lessons When Aspiring to Progress
Lessons can be costly, but in another, more tragic sense so can carelessness. Unless your child is incredibly sensible and truly willing to teach themselves slowly with a lot of training, patience and adequate support, the safest option is to get professional coaching. This way, they will always be taught the appropriate protocol and be surrounded by people who really know what they’re doing. They will teach them how to perform tricks at a pace they best see fit, reducing the chances of injury.
3. The Necessity of Secure Equipment
Should you decided to improve from your back garden, make sure that all the pieces of equipment are safe and secure. Faulty platforms, broken roofs and over sprung springs could result in irreversible damage. It’s grim, but trampolining and acrobatics are not just something you can master overnight. It takes a lot of time, dedication and the implementation of proper safety measures.
Overall, much of what has been said is common sense, however, they are points that can be ignored in the moment. By really bearing them in mind and setting yourself up adequately, you really can limit risk. Trampolining is spectacularly exciting, and everyone deserves to improve their skills feeling confident, safe and secure. Always consult professional advice if you need it, check your trampoline regularly and of course, have lots of fun!
Trampoline care and maintenance checklist - so simple kids can do it
Photo Credit - @caleb.farrow
