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If you're wondering whether or not you should buy a trampoline, ask your kids what they think. Chances are most younger children will respond with a resounding yes.
Of course, there are plenty of other reasons why buying a trampoline could be a good idea:
However, trampolines are expensive and kids' attention spans are notoriously short, so think carefully before splashing out big bucks on a top-of-the-line trampoline. There's a chance your kids will jump on their new toy for five minutes and then tire of it and let it rust.
The other main drawback is that trampolines can take up a lot of space. Some of the largest circular models can have a width of around five metres, so if you've only got limited backyard space to work with, buying a trampoline simply may not be a viable option.
Before you start shopping for a trampoline, get to know the different types on offer:
Description | Pros | Cons | |
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Trampolines with springs | This is the design most people are familiar with. It features a bounce mat linked to a galvanised steel frame by metal coil springs. |
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Springless trampolines | These models use flexible fibreglass rods or leaf springs instead of metal coil springs to provide bouncing power. These rods/leaf springs and the frame are positioned below the jumping surface to reduce the risk of injury. |
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In-ground trampolines | In-ground or sunken trampolines are semi-permanent outdoor fixtures that are installed directly into the ground, similar to an in-ground pool. |
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Trampoline prices vary greatly depending on the size, brand and design of the trampoline. You can pick up a basic 10-foot model from a department store for around $150, but most brand-name models start at $300. Springless trampolines cost more than those with springs and it's possible to pay the best part of $3,000 for a top-shelf model. Finally, don't forget to double-check whether the cost of delivery is included in the price tag or whether you'll need to pay an additional fee.
Which trampoline offers the best safety features for your kids and is the best fit for your backyard? To find out you'll need to compare the following factors:
Most modern trampolines are round but there are also rectangular, square and oval-shaped models available. The even distribution of springs on a circular model draws the jumper back to the centre, but this can cause collisions when there are multiple people on the bounce mat. Rectangular trampolines offer a large jumping area and can fit well into most backyards, but they generally require heavy frames that make them difficult to move.
Trampoline sizes refer to the dimensions of the bounce mat and are often quoted in feet, with the diameter of most circular models falling in the 6-14 foot range. However, keep in mind that the frame will take up additional space around the jumping mat, so check the specs sheet for the full measurements of a trampoline.
Make sure you carefully measure the size of your backyard, including leaving at least two metres of obstacle-free space all around the trampoline, before you buy.
Trampolines are notoriously difficult to assemble, so take a look at the instruction manual to see whether it's clear and easy to understand. Note that you'll typically need at least two people to put a trampoline together safely.
Some manufacturers will also build and install your trampoline for you, for an extra fee, and others offer online video tutorials to guide you through the construction process.
The maximum recommended weight limit varies depending on the size of a trampoline and its design, but could be anywhere from 75kg to 200kg.
The Australian safety standard for trampolines, AS 4989:2015, isn't mandatory. However, there are several manufacturers that endeavour to meet this standard, so check the fine print to find out whether any model you're considering is compliant.
Look out for the following safety features:
Trampolines have come a long way since the days of those exposed-spring death traps many of us remember from our youth, but that certainly doesn't mean they're risk-free. In fact, with more than 3,000 trampoline-related injuries reported each year in Australia, and 1 in 6 children reported to have sustained a trampoline-related injury, they're still a whole lot more dangerous than many people realise.
To help combat these risks, follow these eight simple safety tips:
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