Frequently Asked Questions – You Asked, We Answered!
Choosing a trampoline size that will best fit your need can be a hard task. It is human nature that people want to buy the biggest trampoline available on the market.
Is this really necessary? Well, not exactly… Read on!
Do I need any previous gymnastics experience?
No, everybody can jump on the trampoline as no previous experience is needed. Only make sure that you jump within your skillset. Don’t expect that doing flips is easy and that you should immediately try it. For a start, just some regular bouncing will need to suffice.
What size trampoline do I need?
When trying to choose a trampoline size you need to consider the following:
- Who will be using it? As you might presume, there is no point in buying a 14ft or bigger trampoline if only the bouncer will be a toddler or small child. In that case, it is best to buy an 8ft or 10ft trampoline. 12ft trampolines can be purchased if the trampoline will be used by older children or teenagers and 14 ft only for teenagers or the whole family. Always try to match children’s age and capabilities with the size of the trampoline. Also, the next aspect of the decision is the size of your garden. Take those facts into consideration and you will get the perfect trampoline size that will suit your needs.
- Will it fit your backyard? We always want the best & biggest, but there were cases when people forgot that their backyard is not big enough for the trampoline ordered… Most likely this can occasionally happen when people order online, without seeing how big that trampoline is.
For more info check out our overview of trampoline types and shapes!
What are the available shapes of trampolines and when to use which?
Trampolines come in several shapes, and each one has its purpose. They are available in five main types: round, rectangular, oval, and square trampolines (which were introduced for filling out a gap between round and rectangular and they take the best qualities of both) plus some additional models, like octagonal.
Is there any difference when jumping on different shapes of trampolines?
This answer is pretty straightforward – YES.
If you want the best bouncing experience then only rectangular, oval and springless trampolines can be considered. The difference between them is that rectangular trampolines are better in bounce height, but they are not as safe as springless or even round trampolines. So which one to take is all about what you really need it for, recreational or training purposes. If part-time recreation is the main reason, a springless trampoline would be my first choice.
If the main reason is training, the rectangular trampoline is what you need as round trampolines mostly do not have enough room for performing tricks (but are safer because jumpers in round trampolines are always directed to the centre of the trampoline mat) and rectangular will give you best performance and available space (but are less safer because jumpers alone decide where it will land on a mat).
With oval trampolines, you can get enough room for tricks and as the design is similar to round trampolines, they also point bouncers back to the centre of the trampoline mat.
More info:
Do all trampolines have the same weight limit?
Of course not. The trampoline weight limit is different on all trampolines, based on several elements from which the trampoline is made of. Frame thickness, springs, mat quality, number of stitches and overall quality of those parts has a huge impact on the maximum weight limit of the bouncer.
Some general specifications are like this:
Weight limit:
Shape – ROUND
- 8ft – 10ft trampolines – from 200 – 250 lbs
- 12ft trampolines – from 250 – 300 lbs
- 14ft – 16ft trampolines – from 250 – 400 lbs
Shape – RECTANGULAR
- All trampoline sizes – from 200 – 450 lbs
Shape – OVAL
- 16ft trampolines – from 300 – 450 lbs
Shape – OCTAGONAL
I want the best available trampoline on the market for recreational purposes. Which should I buy?
If you plan to use your trampoline for recreational purposes daily consider buying a 14 or 15 ft round trampoline, 9 x 15 ft rectangular trampoline or 8 x 13 ft large oval spring-based or springless trampoline. Of course, size and available place in your backyard also count.
How NOT to get hurt on a trampoline!?
This is an interesting question but unfortunately, there is no unique answer. But we can tell you this:
- always read the trampoline user manual as it will help you get started with your trampoline training, if nothing more, you will learn some basic moves to start with!
- always use trampoline safety pads and trampoline enclosure – they are a lifesaver,
- check trampoline mat for cuts or tearings before every training session,
- check if trampoline springs are firmly attached to frames and mat,
- DO NOT overestimate your abilities. Learn to bounce properly before performing any tricks,
- DO NOT let children inside the trampoline without supervision. Trampoline is not a kindergarten,
- If the neighbour’s kids will come to play any trampoline games, explain to them how to act on the trampoline. Rules must be known!