10 Amazing Trampoline Exercise Benefits for Kids

If you’re looking for a fun way to keep your little ones active and healthy, you’ve come to the right place.

Whether it’s a Kids Trampoline with Enclosure Net or a sturdy Rectangular Trampoline, trampolines offer a fantastic low-impact workout that can do wonders for your child’s overall wellbeing.

In this article, we’ll explore ten amazing benefits of trampoline exercise for kids, covering both physical and emotional advantages. With the wide range of trampolines available today, from toddler trampolines to larger garden trampolines, you’ll discover how trampolining can boost muscle strength, improve body awareness, and even enhance mood through endorphin release.

We’ll also look at how trampoline exercise builds core strength, improves self-confidence, and provides many other benefits.

Let’s dive in!

Physical Benefits of Trampoline Exercise

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Jumping on a trampoline, whether it’s a small 5ft Recreational Toddler Trampoline with a Safety Enclosure Net or a rectangular trampoline, is an excellent way to boost your child’s heart health. Just 10 minutes of bouncing can offer a form of exercise that strengthens the heart, lowers cholesterol, and keeps kids fit. Trampolining is especially effective for young children since the activity is easier on their joints compared to other high-impact exercises.

2. Strengthens Muscles and Bones

A trampoline workout engages nearly all muscle groups, whether it’s a Kids Trampoline with Enclosure or the first-ever two-level trampoline. From the legs to the core, every bounce strengthens your child’s body. The durable bounce mats ensure a consistent, low-impact workout, making it perfect for protecting growing joints while still building muscle. The weight-bearing impact of trampolining also promotes bone density, reducing the risk of joint-related issues later in life.

3. Enhances Balance and Coordination

Jumping on an 8-foot trampoline or an oval trampoline challenges a child’s balance and coordination. Every bounce forces the child to adjust their centre of gravity, improving motor skills. Whether they’re enjoying a baby trampoline or a larger outdoor trampoline, this activity develops a child’s proprioception (the ability to sense their body’s position in space), improving their balance and coordination in everyday activities.

Cognitive and Emotional Benefits

4. Boosts Concentration and Learning Ability

The bounce pattern and directional movement involved in trampolining help stimulate the brain and improve focus. Trampolines with enclosures creates a safe space where children can learn to focus on their movements, improving their attention span. Rectangular models or octagonal trampolines offer even more structured environments for learning spatial awareness.

5. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Physical activity, especially bouncing on a trampoline, is a great stress reliever. The release of endorphins during a workout helps children relax and feel happier. Trampoline fun is an excellent way to manage stress while also providing healthy exercise for your child’s mind and body. Many trampolines come with added safety features, like a Trampoline Safety Net or Trampoline Pads, making them ideal for kids with anxiety.

6. Improves Self-Confidence

Mastering new skills on a garden trampoline or a colourful toddler trampoline helps boost self-confidence. Whether it’s a child using a mini fitness trampoline indoors or bouncing on an outdoor trampoline, the sense of accomplishment from learning a new trick can significantly boost their self-esteem.

Social and Developmental Advantages

7. Encourages Outdoor Play

Getting kids to play outside is easier with a trampoline. Outdoor play equipment like a trampoline with a pink surround or an inground model can encourage children to spend hours outside. The exercise they get from jumping on a rectangular trampoline or foot trampoline helps keep them healthy while allowing them to enjoy fresh air.

8. Promotes Social Interaction

Trampolines are a great way to promote social interaction among children. Whether at a leisure centre or in your backyard space, children can bond over trampoline games, enhancing their social skills. The wonderful space created by a trampoline encourages interaction and teamwork.

9. Develop persistence and Goal-Setting

Achieving the perfect bounce or mastering new tricks requires persistence, especially on competition trampolines. As children aim to achieve their goals on trampolines of different shapes, from octagonal trampolines to rectangular trampolines, they learn the value of perseverance. This can translate into other aspects of life, fostering a growth mindset.

Safety Tips for Trampoline Use

While trampolines offer many benefits, it’s essential to keep safety tips for trampoline use in mind. Ensure you choose a trampoline with quality materials and extra safety features, like a Trampoline Enclosure or Trampoline Pads. Consider adding a trampoline cover to protect the mat during harsh weather. Regular maintenance, including checking springs and bolts, is also key. Larger trampolines should be secured against strong winds, especially in backyard spaces.

By following these safety guidelines, you can ensure that your children enjoy all the benefits of trampoline exercise while staying safe.

Trampolines offer an abundance of physical, emotional, and social benefits. From boosting cardiovascular health to improving balance and coordination, trampolining is a perfect option for kids. With various categories of trampolines available, including high-quality kids trampolines and toddler trampolines, there’s something for every family and space. So why not add a trampoline to your child’s daily routine and watch them bounce their way to better health?

Frequently Asked Questions About Trampolines

Is trampolining beneficial for children?

Absolutely! Trampolining on a safe, high-quality trampoline is a fun way to build strength and coordination. It’s perfect for kids of all ages.

What is the appropriate age for children to start using a trampoline?

Go on one at a time, according to RoSPA 60% of injuries happen when more than one person is on the trampoline and the person weighing less is five times more likely to be injured.

Do not let children under the age of six on a trampoline as they are not sufficiently physically developed to control their bouncing.

What are the safety features to look for in a trampoline?

Look for trampolines with enclosures, Trampoline Safety Nets, and durable materials to keep your children safe during play.

What is the downside of a trampoline?

Trampolines can be fun and offer good exercise, but they also come with several potential downsides:

Risk of Injury: One of the biggest concerns with trampolines is the high risk of injury, especially for children. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and head or neck injuries due to falls or improper landings.

Supervision Requirement: Trampolines often require close adult supervision to ensure safety, especially for younger children. Without proper monitoring, the risk of accidents increases.

Space and Setup: Trampolines take up significant space, which might be challenging for households with limited yard or indoor space. They also need to be properly set up with safety features like nets or padding.

Maintenance: Trampolines require regular maintenance to keep them safe. This includes checking for wear and tear on the mat, springs, and frame, as well as ensuring safety enclosures are intact.

Weather Sensitivity: Outdoor trampolines can be affected by weather. They may need to be disassembled or protected during winter months or storms, adding an extra task for owners.

Cost: High-quality trampolines, especially those with safety features, can be quite expensive. Additionally, ongoing costs for repairs or replacement parts can add up.

Liability: If someone gets injured on your trampoline, there may be liability issues, particularly if you don’t have proper homeowner’s insurance that covers trampoline-related injuries.

Weight Limitations: Most trampolines have weight limits, which restrict who can safely use them. Overloading a trampoline can lead to damage or injury.

Despite these downsides, many still find trampolines worth the investment for entertainment and exercise, provided that safety precautions are followed.

What shape trampoline is best?

The best shape of a trampoline depends on what you prioritise in terms of performance, safety, and available space. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each trampoline shape to help you decide:

1. Round Trampoline

Best for: General use, families, younger children.

Pros:

Safer: The circular shape naturally directs jumpers toward the centre, reducing the risk of falling off.

Even Bounce: Springs work evenly to give a balanced, controlled bounce.

Affordability: Round trampolines are typically the most affordable because they are mass-produced and easy to find.

Cons:

Less Bounce Power: The bounce is softer compared to other shapes, which might not be ideal for advanced users or gymnasts.

2. Rectangular Trampoline

• Best for: Gymnasts, athletes, those with larger backyards.

Pros:

• Higher Bounce: Rectangular trampolines offer a stronger, more powerful bounce because the springs work independently, making them great for advanced tricks and flips.

• More Control: You can jump and land at any point on the mat without being pulled toward the center, offering more control and space.

• Professional Use: This shape is used in competitions and by gymnasts due to the predictable, high bounce.

Cons:

• More Expensive: Rectangular trampolines are usually more costly due to their design and stronger springs.

• Takes More Space: They require more space and may not fit in smaller yards.

3. Oval Trampoline

• Best for: Families with multiple jumpers or larger backyards.

Pros:

• More Jumping Space: Oval trampolines offer more surface area than round ones, allowing multiple people to jump at once with more room.

• Controlled Bounce: Like round trampolines, they tend to push jumpers toward the centre but provide a longer jumping area, making them more versatile.

• Middle Ground: They offer a balance between the soft bounce of a round trampoline and the power of a rectangular one.

Cons:

• Harder to Find: Oval trampolines are less common and can be more expensive than round ones.

• Space Requirements: They require more space than a round trampoline but less than a rectangular one.

4. Square Trampoline

• Best for: Those wanting a versatile trampoline with good bounce and a compact footprint.

Pros:

• Higher Bounce than Round: The bounce is stronger than on a round trampoline but not as powerful as on a rectangular one.

• Compact Design: Square trampolines take up less space than rectangular ones, offering more jumping area in smaller spaces.

• Even Bounce: Provides a more balanced bounce across the mat.

Cons:

• More Expensive than Round: Square trampolines are often more expensive than round ones but generally less than rectangular ones.

• Space Efficiency: While compact, they might not be as spacious as an oval or rectangular trampoline for multiple users.

5. Octagonal Trampoline

• Best for: Advanced users, acrobats, or those wanting a unique design.

Pros:

• Uniform Bounce: Similar to round trampolines, they offer a consistent, even bounce but with more jumping space.

• More Surface Area: The octagonal shape provides more usable space than round trampolines of the same diameter.

• Higher Bounce: Octagonal trampolines typically offer a slightly stronger bounce than round ones.

Cons:

• Expensive: These tend to be pricier because they are less common and larger.

• Space Requirements: They need a large backyard or space for installation.

Final Considerations:

• Best for Families and Kids: Round trampolines are typically the safest and most affordable option.

• Best for Gymnasts and Athletes: Rectangular trampolines offer the highest and most controlled bounce.

• Best for Multi-Jumper Use: Oval and square trampolines are great for larger groups, offering more surface area.

• Budget: Round trampolines are usually the cheapest, while rectangular and octagonal trampolines can be quite expensive.

If safety and affordability are your top concerns, a round trampoline is often the best choice. If you’re looking for performance and advanced usage, a rectangular trampoline is the way to go.

Is trampoline good for a 2 year old?

Trampolines can be fun for toddlers, but there are important considerations and potential risks when it comes to using trampolines for 2-year-olds. Here’s an overview:

Pros:

Exercise and Physical Development: Bouncing on a trampoline can help improve balance, coordination, and motor skills, which are essential for a toddler’s development.

Energy Outlet: It’s a good way for toddlers to burn off energy in a fun way.

Safe Versions Available: There are trampolines specifically designed for toddlers, typically smaller in size, with safety enclosures and padded edges, making them much safer than larger, standard trampolines.

Cons:

Risk of Injury: Toddlers are still developing coordination and may not have full control over their movements, making them more prone to falls, sprains, or head injuries. The American Academy of Pediatrics generally discourages trampoline use for children under 6 years old, as young children have a higher risk of injury.

Safety Concerns on Larger Trampolines: Standard trampolines, especially outdoor ones designed for older children or adults, pose a significant risk for toddlers. Jumping with older children or on a trampoline without proper supervision can lead to injury.

Bone Development: Toddlers have softer bones than older children, making them more vulnerable to fractures if they fall awkwardly on a trampoline.

Safety Tips:

If you decide to let your 2-year-old use a trampoline, consider these safety precautions:

Use a Toddler-Specific Trampoline: Purchase a small trampoline designed for toddlers, which usually comes with a handlebar for support and safety padding.

Supervision: Always supervise trampoline use closely to prevent accidents.

One Child at a Time: Make sure only the toddler is jumping to avoid collisions, especially with older children.

Limit Time: Keep bouncing sessions short and gentle to avoid overtiring or overexciting your toddler.

Alternatives:

If safety is a primary concern, there are other ways to encourage physical activity for toddlers, like using soft play equipment, indoor ball pits, or bounce houses designed specifically for young children.

In summary, while a trampoline can be beneficial for a 2-year-old when used with the right equipment and strict safety measures, the potential risks are something to consider seriously. Opting for a small, toddler-friendly trampoline under close supervision is the safest route. 

What is the best age to get a trampoline?

The best age to get a trampoline largely depends on the type of trampoline and the maturity of the child. However, most experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend waiting until a child is at least 6 years old before allowing them to use a larger, traditional trampoline. Here’s a breakdown of why and what to consider:

Why Age 6 is Recommended:

Physical Development: By age 6, most children have developed better balance, coordination, and muscle strength, which helps them manage the risks associated with bouncing and landing safely.

Injury Risk: Younger children, especially those under 6, have a higher risk of injury because their bones are softer, and their coordination is less developed. They are more likely to fall awkwardly or be injured by stronger bounces.

Judgment and Awareness: Older children are better able to follow safety rules, like taking turns and bouncing within the middle of the trampoline, which can reduce accidents.

Trampoline Options for Younger Children (2-5 Years Old):

If you have younger children and want them to enjoy trampolining safely, consider these alternatives:

Toddler Trampolines: These are small, low-to-the-ground trampolines designed specifically for children under 5. They usually come with handlebars for added stability, which is helpful for toddlers and preschoolers.

Mini Indoor Trampolines: These are also safe options for younger children. They tend to have smaller bounce areas and are lower to the ground, with safety features like padded frames.

Safety Considerations for Different Ages:

6 to 10 Years Old: By this age, children have the physical maturity to use a full-sized trampoline with proper safety measures. Still, it’s important to ensure that only one child is jumping at a time and that they are always supervised. A safety net enclosure is essential to prevent falls.

10 and Above: Older children and teenagers are usually better able to handle the physical demands and risks of trampolining. They are also more likely to engage in tricks, flips, and other stunts, so it’s critical to enforce rules about what is safe and what isn’t.

Key Safety Tips for All Ages:

Use a Safety Net: Always have a net enclosure around the trampoline to prevent falls.

Adult Supervision: Supervise children while they are jumping, regardless of their age.

One Jumper at a Time: To avoid collisions, allow only one person to jump at a time.

No Stunts: Discourage flips or tricks, especially on a standard backyard trampoline, as they can lead to serious injury.

Regular Maintenance: Ensure the trampoline is in good condition, with no broken springs, tears in the mat, or damaged safety nets.

The best age for a child to start using a larger trampoline is 6 years old, based on recommendations from pediatricians and injury prevention experts. For younger children, smaller toddler trampolines with appropriate safety features are a better option. Always prioritise safety and supervision, regardless of the child’s age, to minimise injury risks.