When it comes to fun and exciting outdoor activities, trampolines have become a standard play and exercise equipment. They have dominated and replaced the classic swing and climbing frame. A trampoline provides an excellent aerial exercise which brings joy to children, a group of friends, and the whole family. Before you get too excited and ready to jump high, let’s find out the important considerations when purchasing a new trampoline either online or in stores. Let’s get started!
- Space
It’s important to make sure that you have enough space to set up your new trampoline. The recommended minimum overhead clearance required is 24 feet. Also, there should be a horizontal clearance of at least 6 feet from objects, such as bushes, fences, and walls, even with an installed enclosure. It should be fixed on the level ground, like grass, because hard surfaces may add stress and damage to the frame and eventually affecting its overall structure and functionality.
- User Age and Weight
Children under six years old shouldn’t use trampolines that are over 1 ½ foot high. When it comes to the weight, the maximum recommendation is 331 pounds to avoid overloading. The reason why checking user weight and age is important is to avoid any accidents or injury.
- Size and Shape
The bigger the size, the better. For children, the most common size is 12 feet (diameter of the frame) with a 2 feet (60 centimeters) pad you bounce on. Smaller quantities of pads are suitable for young children. The most popular shape is round. Safety nets don’t fit rectangular trampolines, so they’re commonly used by adults and professionals. Also available are oval trampolines, which give more bounce and do take safety nets.
- Parts and Assembly
Before
- Type of Support Structure
Generally, trampolines have different types of support structures including poles, arches, and fiberglass. Keep in mind the more poles are present, the stability of a trampoline is greater. On the other hand, arches supply extra strength by linking the poles together, and fiberglass has a ring on top which ties the poles together.
- Frame Paint
Because trampolines are exposed outdoors, they can be worn out and damaged by harsh elements. It’s essential to choose a frame coated with a corrosion-preventing or rust-resistant paint.
- Care and Maintenance
It’s good practice to check the care and maintenance instructions of every product you’re planning to buy. It’s imperative to check the lifetime of the parts and accessories or the manufacturer’s parts specifications. Keep it in a shaded area to avoid sun damage. Watch for any rusting parts, worn fabrics, and malfunctioning springs with every use. As it ages, it would need parts replacement.
- Replacement Parts
A good trampoline may last ten years. If you’re considering buying a second-hand one, you may need to purchase replacement parts. But of course, it’s best to buy a new one because you’re 100% assured of the condition and quality. When ordering a replacement part, you need to carefully measure it to ensure the right size and the correct type. For the frame, you have to measure all the components attached to the frame horizontally and vertically. The springs are measured from edge to edge. The type of enclosure net depends on the number and type of poles your trampoline has. For the caps or sleeves, check the length and diameter of the poles, as well as the kind of pole caps. Before you order a weather cover, be sure to get the exact measurements.
- Safety Guidelines
Before you let your kids play and start jumping, make sure there’s an adequate perimeter space. Keep in mind these safety guidelines before shopping so you can impart these to the regular users. Install a safety net and set rules for use, most especially if the users are children. There’s an increased risk of collision for multiple users, so only allow one jumper at a time. Always supervise jumpers regardless of age and experience. Never use a wet trampoline and only use it in appropriate weather conditions.
- Value for Money
While there are many cheap ones sold online, it’s best to do a little bit of research and ensure that you’re only buying from a trusted and reputable company that regularly deals with children’s play equipment or adult exercise trampolines (depending on your needs and preference).
Final Thought
Trampolines bring a lot of fun and children do love them and will use them regularly. Safety should always be your priority. Now, you and your family and friends can enjoy outdoors with peace of mind and confidence. Happy trampoline jumping!
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