For many people, half the fun of having a backyard trampoline is to enjoy bouncing with someone else – both on the trampoline at the same time. However, many health authorities advise that no more than one person should be on the trampoline at any one time. But like most things in life, this rule may not be as ironclad as many people think. There are a number of variables to consider before deciding to allow more than one person to be bouncing at the same time.
When It’s Ok to Have Multiple Jumpers
When It’s Ok to Have Multiple JumpersIf you are careful about some common sense rules then you should be able to have more than one person on the trampoline at once. Trampoline safety is constantly a priority as you decide if you will allow multiple jumpers. There are two factors that have to be taken into account (first and foremost). The first of these factors is the size of the trampoline and the second is the size of those who will be using it at the same time. The golden rule is that two children of similar size and weight should be able to use a trampoline safely. The same applies to two adults. However, once again it is worth mentioning that the size of the trampoline is incredibly important. A kids trampoline, like the Langxun 5′ trampoline, is probably not suitable for more than one jumper at a time. As the size of the trampoline increases, so does the capacity to handle more than one person. So why the similar weight requirement? The answer is obvious when you think about it.
Same Size and Weight
If a grown adult and a small child are on the trampoline at the same time there is a very real chance that the smaller of the two can actually be launched off the trampoline by the bouncing action of the other due to the disparities in weight and height of the bounce. This can be incredibly dangerous for those using the device. There seems to be a consensus among experts that round trampolines pose less of a risk of collision between two parties than rectangular trampolines. When purchasing a trampoline that more than one person is expected to use at the same time it is vitally important that the quality of the components used in the manufacture of the trampoline are world-class. Before you make your buying decision, read up on user reviews to see how the trampoline performs. You should keep an eye out for complaints regarding the mat, the springs, and the frame of the trampoline. If a particular make and model seems prone to failure then avoid that.
However, the retailer can also be an invaluable source of information. Find out what he or she recommends and if there is any advice from the manufacturer. Often the manufacturer will advise against having more than one person on the trampoline at the same time. Should someone injure themselves, the risk of a lawsuit makes manufacturers extremely careful when it comes to the issue of multiple people on the trampoline at the same time.
Take a long hard look at the paperwork that comes with the trampoline. If you decide to go ahead and purchase that trampoline and you do have more than one person on at a time – always pay attention to the size and weight of those on the trampoline. It’s a golden rule that those of the trampoline should be similar in build, age, and weight.
When all is said and done having only one person on the trampoline is by far the safest course of action. Remember also that there are other safety precautions that should always be observed. Make sure to purchase a trampoline safety net. Always supervise younger users. Anyone under six years old should not be allowed on a trampoline, the possibility of injury is simply too great.
Common Sense Rules
Younger users need to repeatedly be told to keep to the middle of the trampoline. They should be instructed to step off the trampoline rather than bounce. Safety pads need to cover the springs – and younger children need to be told again and again not to go under the trampoline, even when no one is using it. They are unseen and someone could step onto the trampoline unaware that they are there. Neck injuries are a very real danger. Do not place the trampoline on hard surfaces such as concrete and ensure that it is at least 10 feet from any hard surface or structure.
Some common sense will see everyone enjoying their trampoline experience. If you are going to have two on the trampoline – use common sense.
