Trampolines have been gaining in popularity over the past few decades. According to Tracy Sarris, Executive Vice President of the International Association of Trampoline Parks, there has been a 700 percent increase in the number of trampoline park facilities worldwide by the year 2013.
This unprecedented increase in popularity led many people thinking “are at-home trampolines better than trampoline parks? Would it be a good idea to invest in an at-home trampoline, or there are better facilities available in trampoline parks?
A lot of reports suggest that trampoline parks are more dangerous than backyard trampolines. Let’s look at how parks compare to backyards in terms of safety, costs, and accessibility and understand how at-home trampolines are better than trampoline parks.
See How At-Home Trampolines Compare to Parks in Terms of Safety
When it comes to trampolines, all data indicates that less is usually more. Many consider not buying a trampoline for their backyard, considering that there are trampoline parks nearby, and it could be a more cost-effective way to take your kids out.
However, some studies suggest that using trampolines at trampoline parks is more dangerous than using them at home.
While more trampoline-related accidents occur in the backyard than in trampoline parks, the most severe ones occur in trampoline parks rather than the backyard.
This is most likely because there are a lot more trampolines to bounce on in trampoline parks than in the backyard. With more trampolines, there is usually a lot more room to do more tricks. Moreover, trampoline parks have trampoline walls, which raises confidence for innovative stunts. And while exploring different rebounding tricks on these trampolines you may encounter serious injury.
Research Shows that Trampoline Parks Are More Dangerous!
Studies suggest that most trampoline-related injuries occur when they are used by more than one person. This happens because of the collision between multiple jumpers.
You can already guess this relationship to trampoline parks. In trampoline parks, you have no control over how many people will be using the trampolines on a given day.
Also, it is much more difficult to supervise when there are more people around. You can most certainly expect one or two excited individuals to show their skills. Keep in mind that children are usually the ones to bear the cost.
Negligence with Responsibilities in Trampoline Parks.
Since children have much weaker bodies, they are more vulnerable to injuries. Also, keep in mind that trampoline parks are not obliged to take responsibility for the injuries, and you’ll likely have to sign a waiver before entering the park.
One investigation by the Boston 25 News found that there are hidden dangers to using trampoline parks; reports indicate that there could be design flaws within the park that could lead to more injuries.
However, trampoline parks have been gaining popularity over the past few decades. The International Association of Trampoline Parks estimated 50 million visits to trampoline parks in North America in 2015.
Additionally, the report indicated from the government injury surveillance system that injuries occurring from trampoline parks increased over the decades from 600 in 2010 to a staggering 6,932 cases in 2014.
At-home Trampolines vs. Parks: How Does It Compare to Costs?
Let’s talk about the costs. You may be thinking that buying a trampoline is more expensive than just visiting a trampoline park. But that is not the case here. Yes, trampolines are expensive and require maintenance every now and then for safety.
Usually, a budget-friendly trampoline can cost around $200-$300. However, it can last more than 5 years if maintained properly. Visiting a trampoline park is inexpensive for a single-day visit; you can expect the ticket to be around $50.
But if you plan to go there frequently, you can already see that only visiting 4 times a year can accumulate the amount of money with which you can buy a trampoline. And you’re also saving transportation costs.
Also, since more severe injuries occur at trampoline parks than at home, the costs of medical attention will be higher for trampolines at parks. Therefore, if you are planning to get a trampoline, the best possible idea would be to set aside a few extra bucks for trampoline accessories.
Modern trampolines now come in a variety of add-ons and accessories that you can buy. If you are concerned about safety, consider setting up a safety net around the trampoline. This will greatly reduce the risks of flying off from the edge while bouncing. Helmets and safety pads can add an extra layer to security as well.
What Makes Trampolines Safer in the Backyard?
To put it simply, there’s more control over how the trampoline is used. First of all, there is almost no exercise that goes without the risk of being injured. The question is more about how you can get your kids excited about exercising while minimizing the risks.
Trampolines are an incredible tool for exercise, and even professional athletes use them. Having a trampoline in the backyard means you have more control over its use.
You can supervise your kids not to undertake any risky moves while trampolining and make sure that no more than one person is using the trampoline. Most of the injuries associated with trampolining occur when there are multiple people on the trampoline.
How Do I Practice Safe Trampolining?
To ensure that you and your kids can enjoy safe trampolining, here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:
- Avoid trampolining with multiple people
- Monitor how your children use trampolines
- Do not let children under 6 use trampolines
- Avoid Jumping between multiple trampolines
- Always try to bounce in the middle of the trampoline
- Check your trampoline for maintenance and repair
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the biggest trampoline park in the world?
Flip Out Glasgow in Rutherglen, Glasgow, is the biggest trampoline park in the world, with an incredible 63,000 square feet.
- Is there a minimum and maximum age limit in trampoline parks?
Most trampoline parks do not have any age limits, but it’s best to check with the venue if there are. Kids below the age of 6 are strongly discouraged from trampolining due to safety concerns.
- How much space should I leave around my backyard trampoline?
A minimum of two feet of free space around your trampoline is recommended. Also, make sure no hazardous materials are lying around in front of your trampoline, like electrical cables, sharp objects, etc.
- Are safety nets essential?
Almost all manufacturers provide safety nets with trampolines nowadays. It’s not mandatory; however, it’s highly recommended, especially if you have kids using trampolines.
Final Word
Trampoline parks are great if you are a seasoned expert or if it’s an activity that you just wish to try out once. However, for any average person, getting a trampoline for the backyard is way more productive and cost-effective in the long run.
So, if you ask are at-home trampolines better than trampoline parks, then I will say yes, considering the risks associated with using trampolines seem to be much higher in trampoline parks than in the backyard. However, be sure to do your research and figure out what works best for you.
Last Updated on May 20, 2023
