Trampolining
A brief overview
Trampolining is a popular competitive, Olympic and recreational sport. In competitions, men and women compete separately. Trampoline routines can be done as an individual or in pairs.
You are normally required to act out a range of acrobatic sequences / routines whilst jumping on the trampoline. The jumps could be in a ‘straight, pike, tuck or straddle’ position and also forward and backward somersaults and twists.
Scoring is calculated by the difficulty of the jumps as well as how many seconds are spent in the air. Watch out though, you can loose points for bad form!
Where did trampoling come from?
Trampolining came about in the 1930s! George Nissen, an American gymnast created the first modern trampoline after observing trapeze artists performing tricks. He built a trampoline in his garage to help with his own diving and tumbling activities. He then went on to form a company to build trampolines.
Why should I give it a go?
Trampolining is low impact and therefore is easy on your joints.
It is great fun and also a fun way to exercise and get fit.
It is probably the closest exercise that you will get to flying!
It is very versatile – you can do twists and turns, summersaults.
You can work up a sweat and burn calories.
It is great for your abdominals, thighs and buttocks.
You can get a mini-trampoline and do it in the comfort of your own home.
What do I need for trampolining?
Not that much: just comfortable clothes. This could be shorts / tracksuits and t-shirts. You should not have any sharp objects like belts. You do not wear shoes on trampolines.
Where can I try trampolining?
Across the UK there are a lot of trampoline centres where you can give it a go for fun, join a trampoline fitness class or try it as a sport! A lot of centres have sessions for toddlers (2+) to get them interested in being active at a young age and also to help them improve their balance and coordination. Gyms may offer trampoline fitness classes.
What type of trampolining sessions are there?
Most centres offer a great choice of sessions. These can include toddler sessions, family sessions, fitness sessions, children only sessions and grown up only sessions in large rooms filled with giant trampolines. There are also classes where each individual has a mini-trampoline to workout on and follows and instructor’s lead.
What are the health benefits to trampolining?
Jumping aids weight loss.
Jumping increases bone density.
Jumping is low impact on a trampoline.
Jumping improves lung capacity.
Jumping is good for your mental health.
Jumping is a strengthening activity.
Jumping gets your circulation going.
Jumping improves balance and coordination.
Jumping is excellent for your cardiovascular health.
Why not start bouncing today?