The trampoline, which was invented back in the 1930s by Larry Griswold and George Nissen, has been a great source of fun and exercise for children and adults alike. In the early days of the trampoline, the safety aspect was not such a big issue as it is today. Accidents were accepted as part of the trampoline experience back then. As these accidents became more frequent and their severity became greater, even leading to fatalities, something had to be done to improve the safety of the trampoline. Here we take a look at some of the safety measures brought in and how they reduce the possibility of accidents occurring.
The earliest safety measures for trampoline use involved simple common sense and good placement of the apparatus. Parents were mindful of children becoming reckless during exercise or aggressive and competitive play on the trampoline. Boys, more than girls, would try to see who could bounce the highest or do the most outlandish twists and somersaults in mid-air. Often, two or more children would try to bounce together. These antics would often result in one of the more over-enthusiastic children coming to harm by colliding in mid-air, landing badly or being catapulted from the trampoline and landing hard on the ground.
To reduce the possibility of that hard landing, placing a trampoline on a grassy area was better than on hard asphalt, concrete or paved areas. Placing the apparatus in an open space away from overhanging branches, clothes lines or other interfering projections also reduced accidents. Making sure there were no dangerous objects on the ground around the trampoline such as rocks or sharp tools or toys also helped.
Parental supervision was another common sense safety measure, but one that was not strictly adhered to, so rules had to be introduced to prevent children hurting themselves. One such rule was to allow only one child on the trampoline at a time. Other preventative rules, such as never using the trampoline when it was wet, also reduced accidents.
A later safety measure taken to reduce the possibility of accidents occurring during exercise on trampolines involved erecting safety netting around the perimeter of the trampoline frame. This is a fairly recent addition and comprises outwardly splayed or upright netting attached to a lightweight aluminum or steel tubular frame. Different types either attach directly to the trampoline frame or are erected around its perimeter. These safety nets prevent the user being accidentally thrown off the trampoline.
Safety first is a common sense institution that has been around for a very long time now. Parents and teachers have drummed safety first into children from an early age to try to reduce accidents occurring during the large number of different activities that they get up to. The use of a trampoline for exercise or recreation is no exception and in most cases where common sense prevails, accidents will be minimal. Parental supervision further reduces that risk, or in the case of adult exercise safety netting can also help to prevent accidents occurring. In the end, the trampoline is a device that combines exercise with great pleasure and fun for children and adults alike and when it's done safely, the enjoyment is complete.
