INTRODUCTION
Initially, get accustomed to the feel and bounce of the trampoline. You should focus on your body position and you should practice each of the basic bounces (see below) until you can perform each with ease and control.
To brake a bounce on your trampoline, flex your knees sharply before your feet come into contact with the mat. This technique should be practiced as you are learning each of the basic bounces. The skill of braking should be used whenever you lose balance or control of your jump.
Always learn the simplest bounce first and be consistent with the control of your bounce before moving on to more difficult and advanced bounces. A controlled bounce is when your take off point and landing point is the same spot on the mat. If you move up to the next bounce without first mastering the previous, you increase your risk of injury.
Do not bounce on the trampoline for extended periods of time, as fatigue can increase your risk of injury. Bounce only for a brief period of time. Only one person should bounce on the trampoline at any time.
Do not bounce recklessly on the trampoline as this will increase your risk of injury. The key to safety and having fun on the trampoline is control and mastering the various bounces. Never try to out-bounce another bouncer in terms of height! Never use the trampoline without supervision.
BASIC TRAMPOLINE BOUNCES
THE BASIC BOUNCE
- Start from standing position. Feet should be shoulder width apart and your head should be up and your eyes on mat.
- Swing arms forward, up and around in a circular motion.
- Bring feet together while in mid-air and point toes downward.
- Keep feet, shoulder width apart when landing on mat.
KNEE BOUNCE
- Start with basic bounce and keep it low.
- Land on knees keeping back straight and your body erect. Use arms to maintain balance.
- Bounce back to basic bounce position by swinging arms up
SEAT DROP
- Land in a flat sitting position.
- Place hands on mat besides hips.
- Return to erect position by pushing with hands.
FRONT BOUNCE
- Start with a low bounce.
- Land in a face down position and keep hands and arms extended forward on the mat.
- Push off the mat with arms to return to standing position.