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Trampoline Safety
Trampolining is not inherently a dangerous sport providing safety guidelines are followed and coaches instructions obeyed. Members might be concerned by American accident statistics that suggest a high accident rate associated with trampolines - it should be noted that the vast majority of these appear to occur on unsupervised 'back-yard' trampolines by those who have had no formal coaching or safety supervision. We were pleased to note that in June 2009 BG issued a guidance document on use of garden trampolines which can be downloaded from here. Their strongest recommendation is to ensure that before considering buying one, get some proper training in how to trampoline!
At least one major UK
supplier of garden trampolines has taken a similar view that training is
essential and offers two free lessons
(not really enough but a start) with every garden trampoline they supply; Brentwood Trampoline Club are pleased
to be a participating club in this initiative. More details are available
on the
Supertramp website.
The club's coaches will do everything they can reasonably do to ensure a safe environment but it is also down to the members (and in some cases their parents) to play their part - specifically the following spring to mind immediately although other points may be made in future:
- performers should always be appropriately dressed see our dress code;
- they, or their parent(s), should always inform the coach of any medical condition or medication which might affect performance;
- they, or their parent(s), should always inform the coach of any accident
in the last six months which resulted in unconsciousness from a blow to the
head;
Was it true?
Or an 'urban legend'? - they should never attempt to unfold/fold the trampoline;
- they must always pay attention to the instructions of any coach;
- they should never use the trampoline unless the coach is present and has given permission for specific skills;
- they should mount and dismount trampolines as instructed - no jumping off or between trampolines;
- there should only be one performer on a trampoline at a time unless expressly told otherwise;
- they should warm up properly and as instructed from time-to-time before trying new or advanced moves;
- they should never go or swing under the trampoline or end decks, including mats between trampolines;
- they should never get involved in 'Tests of Daring' with others who may be far more capable.
- they should take short turns (1 to 2 mins) to avoid fatigue unless expressly told otherwise;
- when spotting, attention must be always paid to the person on the trampoline;
- they must always pay attention to the instructions of any coach;
- no food and drink is allowed around the trampolining area;
- permission should be granted by the coach before the trampolinist leaves the side of the trampoline;
- no shouting or talking across the trampoline to anybody, especially coaches, as it distracts and may cause accidents;
- only attempt those moves for which instruction has been given and to the extent advised (i.e. when learning new moves they should not be attempted unless specifically advised to do so by the coach);
- they must always pay attention to the instructions of any coach;
- stand attentively at the side of the trampoline watching the person on the trampoline whilst not bouncing themselves unless expressly given permission to do otherwise;
- if in doubt ASK the coach;
- they must always pay attention to the instructions of any coach;
- and last but not least – they must enjoy themselves, smile a lot, and help each other to do so as well at all times!
More information is also available in the British Gymnastics Trampoline Code of Practice.
An amusing take on this serious subject using Homer Simpson as a less than ideal example of a safety conscious trampolinist is available here.
Further Reference
A couple of interesting articles on the subject are available on the Internet - try: