How to set up a trampoline outside

Trampolines are a fantastic fun addition to any garden that the whole family can enjoy. Your children will benefit from exercise and the fresh air of being outdoors. As well as the countless benefits having a trampoline brings, there is also a safety element that must be considered. As you may have seen in the papers, if used incorrectly, trampolines can cause accidents and this is why it is crucial to get the basics right in order to ensure you family gets the most out of your new trampoline.

The Basics

1. Choose the location for your trampoline.

• What is the size of this space?
• Is the ground level?
• Is the area clear of hanging branches?

Ideally you want to position your trampoline on an area of soft grassy level ground within your garden, where all feet of the trampoline frame have equal contact with the ground. If one of the legs does not quite reach the ground the frame will twist as the jumper lands and may even cause the springs to over stretch.
If you can avoid putting your trampoline on concrete as this will cause the leg bases to gradually wear away and shorten the life of your trampoline. If you have to put your trampoline onto a concrete base you can buy rubber floor guards to protect the leg bases.
2. Who will be using it?
Each trampoline has a weight limit, so check this beforehand to ensure the one that you buy can withstand the weight that will be shortly bouncing on it!
Also think about the longevity of the trampoline, if for instance your child is 8, would it not be better to purchase a trampoline suitable for a 12 year old or maybe one for all ages as he/she will soon grow out of that trampoline and have you digging deep into your pocket once more for a replacement.
3. Rectangular of Circular?
Rectangular frames are better suited to the more experienced jumper as the springs operate in a different way meaning that you need to be in full control of your balance and technique at all times to stay in control. Circular trampolines work in a different way and allow you to bounce far more gently which will suit people new to trampolines and also small children.
4. Trampoline frame
The thickness of a trampoline frames is measured in gauges. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the metal and the better quality the trampoline.
You really do get what you pay for. The higher the cost of your trampoline the longer it will last and the more enjoyment you will get from it. Think carefully about how often it will be used and also which accessories you will also have to budget for in order for your children to use it safely.

Trampoline Accessories

• Safety Nets/Trampoline Enclosures – this makes falling off a trampoline impossible
• Tents – turns your trampoline into a play house or den for the children.
• Access ladders – better access for small children and elderly bouncers
• Safety skirts – prevents any person/ pet going underneath the trampoline.
• Spring padding – For protection. Closed cell polyethylene foam ones are best.
• Bounce board – board which straps to your feet with Velcro great for practicing skateboard moves.
• Anchor kits – to keep your trampoline in one place and to prevent it from blowing away.

A full range of trampolines will soon feature in my store. Watch this space
Happy bouncing
Gardener Jack