Don't Forget About Safety on Trampolines

Trampolines are a great and fun way to get some exercise, without having to spend a lot of money on fitness equipment or a gym membership. However, it's important to remember that you can also get hurt if you're using a low quality trampoline, or ignoring important safety guidelines. If you make sure to keep some basic rules in mind, you won't get hurt using a trampoline. Feel free to concentrate on the fun – just play safe, too.

The most common injuries from trampolines include broken bones, head injuries and concussions, as well as an assortment of cuts, bruises and sprains. In severe cases, injuries to the neck or spinal cord on a trampoline can cause paralysis or death. However, most people who hurt themselves using trampolines aren't injured this badly.

Most people who suffer trampoline-related injuries are children between the ages of six and fourteen. Lack of proper adult supervision can contribute to the frequency of kids being injured on these pieces of equipment, since children are prone to ignore safety rules. Most of these injuries are caused by a bad landing, especially if the child collides with another jumper or strikes the springs or edge of the trampoline.

However, trampolines can be worth the risk, as long as safety standards are followed. To reduce the chance of injury on the edges of the trampoline, look for models with padding over hard areas and over springs. In addition, strong construction is an important factor. A cheap trampoline could fail, even if you do everything correctly. Look for strong fasteners, reinforced stitching, and springs that offer appropriate resilience. Stiff or brittle ones could fail, and give an extra jolt to every bounce that could harm the legs, ankles and feet.

When using a trampoline, stay towards the middle. Never use a trampoline that's too small, or allow too many people to use one. Avoid "stunt" bouncing, and other risky behaviors, and try to land squarely on your feet. If you see any signs of damage to your trampoline or to its fittings, don't use it until the problem can be repaired, or the damaged part replaced. Otherwise, you're risking painful injuries, and further breakage of your trampoline.

Trampolines don't have to be dangerous, as long as they're used properly. Buying a high quality model is also important to safe bouncing. For additional information about how to use your specific trampoline safely, look in the manual that came with it. Follow the rules, and you'll be able to enjoy hours of fun on your trampoline, without having to worry about anyone getting hurt.

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