UK Buyers Guide

What to look for when buying products and services. A UK consumer guide .

Outdoor Trampoline Buyers Guide

 

Not all gardens and backyards will be suitable for an adult size trampoline, and it's worth looking at the safety aspects whilst you shop around for a garden trampoline supplier.

An 8 foot trampoline might sound big because we think of any person over six-foot as very tall. When two people share an 8' space, it soon makes it a much smaller space, especially when they are jumping on a trampoline.

Budget priced trampolines can be a real bargain. A High Jump Budget 12' Trampoline with 16 gauge heavy strong steel frame has 72 high strength springs with durable safe pads over the springs, it is only £149 (special offer) - compare that with a gas barbecue, water feature or garden bench, the low cost trampoline is a great buy when you think that it will take a single user weight - 15 stone (95kg). Combined user weight is 18 stone (115kg) and has a 2 year guarantee on the frame.

So, we can all go and jump for a hundred and fifty quid but what about the safety issues?

Before you go for the cheap and cheerful version, consider who will be bouncing on the trampoline. As much as you think the outdoor trampoline is for the kids, adults will use certainly bounce on it. The 10 ft trampoline would be okay for one child or a couple of small kids and maybe an adult occasionally.
If adults are going to use it regularly, go for at least a 12 ft outdoor trampoline, heavier adults and children ought to consider the 14ft on the basis that the bigger trampolines accept more jumping weight.

Trampolines are for fun and they develop excitement, which in turn leads to over-excitement if we are not cautious. Nobody wants to be a spoilsport but laying down some ground rules is essential.

The area surrounding the outdoor trampoline should be clear of objects such as garden ornaments and barbecues. The trampoline should not be near fences, sheds, trees, or other playground equipment.

Just because your trampoline can take a sixteen stone person, imagine if that bulk of a person was a little tipsy, bounced off the trampoline and landed on a small child.
Alcohol and drugs is a big NO, don't entertain it because in a world of 'No Win, No Fee' lawsuits someone's lawyer could be pursuing you. Smoking should not be allowed on, or near, the trampoline. Food and drink should also be kept well away from the area

Another threat is two people banging in to each other. One person on a trampoline is the safest and if that one person is a child it should not be left unattended.
If you are have a garden party, nominate 'spotters', a bit like lifeguards at a swimming pool and ensure the spotters are always around the trampoline. Generally parents will watch their own children but err on the side of caution and ask a responsible adult to keep watch.

Strong side netting should be to BS 8409 to prevent the user going off the side. Where netting is provided this should extend to a height of 5m above the trampoline surfaceThere is a terrific trampoline safety accessory, a safety net for trampolines sometimes called Fun Rings. They prevent accidents and ensure the user cannot jump off the trampoline. One should always step off.

The safest part of a trampoline is the centre, stay in the middle and keep bouncing low and under control. Always land in the centre of the trampoline and not the edge. Avoid bouncing for long periods of time and do not bounce when you are tired. Do not attempt acrobatics such as a back flip. (ack somersault), multiple somersaults or twisting somersaults on your trampoline.

Let's look at what causes knocks and bumps whilst bouncing on a trampoline.

We all know that when we land on the surface of a trampoline we will leave a conical impression. To understand this better, push your finger slowly into cling-film stretched over a bowl. If another person on the trampoline is lighter and within the incline, they could be forced towards the heavier jumper... great fun for singles party but there are other points to look at.

Two people on a trampoline could lead to accidents. Approximately 75% of injuries occur when more than one person is on the trampoline.
Have fun and enjoy choosing your new adult trampoline.

Indoor Trampolines | Outdoor Trampolines | Adult Trampolines | Kids Trampolines