11
USE AND INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL
OVERVIEW OF TRAMPOLINE USE
The first periods of trampoline use should focus on
learning fundamental body positions and practicing
the eight basic bounces that are described on
pages 13 and 14 in this manual.
During this learning period, jumpers should practise
these basic techniques and perfect them. Braking,
or checking the bounce, should be taught first and
stressed as a safety measure. Jumpers should brake
their jump whenever they start to lose balance or con-
trol. This is done by simply flexing the knees
sharply upon landing and absorbing the upward
thrust of the bed. This enables the jumper to stop
suddenly and avoid losing control.
In trampoline use, the takeoff point and landing
point of a good, controlled jump are in the same
spot. An exercise is considered learned only when a
jumper is able to perform it consistently. Jumpers
should never proceed to any advanced step until they
can perform all previous techniques consistently.
Allow each jumper a brief turn on the trampoline.
Extended bouncing exposes an overtired user to an
increased risk of injury. Longer turns tend to lessen
the interest of others waiting to jump. Clothing should
consist of a T-shirt and shorts. Jumpers should wear
regulation gymnastic shoes or heavy socks, or they
may jump barefoot. Street shoes or tennis shoes
should not be worn on the trampoline. Beginning
jumpers may wish to wear loose-fitting protective
clothes, such as a long-sleeve shirt and pants, until
correct landings are mastered. This will reduce the
chance of mat (bed) burns from improper landings on
elbows and knees. No hard-sole shoes should be
worn, as they cause excessive wear on the trampo-
line bed.
Mounting and dismounting properly should be a
strict rule from the beginning. Users should climb onto
the trampoline by placing their hands on the frame
and stepping or rolling up onto the frame, across the
springs, and onto the bed. Do not step directly onto
the frame pad or grasp the frame pad when mounting
or dismounting the trampoline. Users should always
place their hands on the frame while mounting or dis-
mounting. To dismount, jumpers should walk to the
side of the bed, bend over and place one hand on the
frame, and then step from the bed to the ground. If
you have installed the optional ladder, its rungs can
be used to mount or dismount. Always face the ladder
and place your hands on the frame. Make sure your
foot has secure contact with the ladder rung when
using it.
Reckless bouncing should not be permitted. All skills
should be learned at moderate heights. Control,
rather than height, should be emphasized. Jumpers
should be forbidden to practice alone
and unsuper-
vised.
Summary of Contents for Bazoongi
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