I’ve been thinking of getting a trampoline for the boys some years ago but after reading some (scary) stories and warnings about getting a trampoline for small kids (minor injuries, serious injuries, even death), I decided against it. But this year, I thought that it would be a nice present for Ethan for his birthday since he is such an active child and he runs out of things to do around the house sometimes. Today we went to the mall and we got a mini trampoline. Ethan’s birthday is on the 12th yet but I wanted to get it because when my in-laws arrive from the US on the 5th it might be hard to borrow the van to bring the trampoline home. So, we got one mini-trampoline today and the boys were so excited. Nikki loved it and is calling the trampoline his own. But still, even if I decided to get the trampoline, I’m definitely not going to leave the boys on it. When we got home, Nikki and I reviewed some safety tips. (Ethan wouldn’t understand immediately but if he watches Nikki, he’ll follow by example.)
RULES:
- only one person on the trampoline at a time
- no jumping onto the trampoline
- only jump when Mommy or an adult is around
- the trampoline should be away from furniture, breakable objects, etc.
- always jump in the center of the trampoline mat
- absolutely NO cartwheels, flips or somersaults
And now for the good stuff. Trampolining is great exercise for kids. Here are some of the benefits of this type of exercise:
1. The aerobics associated with jumping on a fitness trampoline strengthens the heart in the same way as other cardio exercises like running and jumping rope. This increase in cardio rate encourages energy use and weight loss.
2. Trampoline exercise tones muscles in the lower half of the body. The legs, thighs, hips, stomach, and abdomen are all used when exercising on a fitness trampoline.
3. Trampoline jumping improves coordination many athletes and gymnasts use trampolines for this reason. Jumping on a trampoline isn’t just about bounding up and down. There is some level of skill involved in reaching a good height and landing in the right way.
4. A small trampoline, or rebound trampoline, is ideal for those who have knee injuries. Since smaller trampolines are not designed for high jumping, there is less pressure on the joints during exercise. Other benefits of a fitness trampoline include improvements in breathing through increased capacity of lungs, reduction in stress and tension, lowers cholesterol levels, and increases energy levels. A fitness trampoline is a good way to get exercise for people who have joint issues that keep them from jogging and running.
(from http://www.familyrapp.com/Results/archive_results_details.asp?ArticleID=1079)
I am quite excited for the boys to exercise on the trampoline. I’m checking out some exercise tips on the ‘net and hopefully I’ll find some great ones. Be posting photos soon! 
1 comment:
I know there are some horror stories out there, but we have never had a single problem with ours (injury-wise) even after several years of owning one. We just insisted on many of the same rules. I always allowed two kids on ours at a time, but told them to stay in the middle and not get near the springs or the frame (they'll learn to jump in unison, as jumping opposite can send them where they don't want to go, lol), as that is where most of the injuries I've ever heard of occurred. My sister-in-law had one and both her boys broke or sprained wrists on theirs over the years, but it was from wild horseplay and getting their arms caught in the frame area. I'm sure the boys will LOVE it, and you're right...it's great exercize. I highly recommend them!
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