A trampoline is a device used for recreational, gymnastic, and fitness activities. It’s made with thick mesh fabric stretched over a circular frame. The fabric is attached by springs, and this allows you to jump and bounce on top.

Jumping on a trampoline can be fun for kids and adults alike. It also increases your heart rate and involves muscle strength, so it doubles as a form of exercise. That’s why rebounding has become so popular.

The activity can be dangerous, though. It poses a high risk of injury to your:

It’s especially unsafe for younger children, who are more likely to get hurt while jumping.

If you choose to use a trampoline, be sure to follow specific safety guidelines. Trampoline jumping can be relatively safe if you stick to certain rules. Keep reading for tips that can help keep you safe.

Trampoline jumping isn’t appropriate for people of every age. Here are the safety precautions for each age group.

Small children, including toddlers, should never use a trampoline. They have a higher risk of getting injured due to their small size.

Kids ages 6 and older can jump on a full-sized trampoline. But they still need adult supervision, especially if they’re younger than 10 years old.

Children between ages 5 and 9 are more likely to get fractures because their bones are still soft. Older kids have a greater chance of getting strains or sprains.

When used properly, trampolines are safe for teens and adults. Still, it’s best to use caution, especially if you have a chronic disease or recent injuries.

In 2012 policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reviewed the data and research on trampoline safety. The organization concluded that trampolines pose a high risk of severe injury.

The AAP also stated that trampolines should be approached with the same caution as swimming pools.

According to the statement, the AAP discourages the use of trampolines. This includes mini and full-sized outdoor trampolines at home, at parks, or in gym classes.

If you decide to buy a trampoline, it’s important to follow safety guidelines. Make sure your entire family is aware of these rules.

Many types of injuries can occur on a trampoline. Injuries can happen when you or your child:

It’s worth noting that injuries can happen even with adult supervision.

Possible trampoline injuries include the following:

A burn may occur when your skin rubs across the rough mesh fabric. The rubbing causes a lot friction, and it can create enough heat to damage the skin. This is called a friction burn and is like a rug burn.

Depending on the severity, a friction burn can cause symptoms like:

Using a trampoline can also cause skin injuries like cuts, scrapes, and bruises.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, attempting trampoline stunts is a common cause of cervical spine injuries.

This type of injury can happen when trying to flip on a trampoline. In some cases, the damage may be permanent.

Jumping on a trampoline can lead to arm sprains and fractures. In fact, approximately 60 percent of fractures due to a trampoline occur in the upper extremities.

If you land wrong or fall off a trampoline, you can sprain or fracture your leg. About 36 percent of trampoline-related fractures affect the lower extremities.

Flipping on a trampoline can also cause a neck injury. This is usually more serious than arm or leg injuries because it involves your spine.

In severe cases, neck injuries can lead to paralysis or death.

Trampoline jumping poses the risk of brain or head injuries, such as:

Brain injuries often happen due to falls or crashing into another jumper. Serious accidents can result in paralysis or death.

Children and adolescents have growth plates at the ends of their long bones. Growth plates are cartilage discs that help these bones grow.

Physical trauma, like fractures, can damage a growth plate. This can cause stunted growth because the bones stop growing earlier.

Trampoline jumping is a common cause of fractures in kids. This means the activity increases the risk of growth plate injuries and delayed physical growth.

Before you or your kids hop on a trampoline, consider the pros and cons.

If your child has a trampoline accident, tell them to stop jumping. Check the injury and call their pediatrician immediately. Older kids and adults should follow the same guidelines.

Get emergency help if your child has any of the following symptoms:

If your child has a minor injury, like a burn or bruise, you may be able to treat it at home. Apply ice, elevate the injury, and make sure they get some rest.

Minor injuries should get better within a few days. You should contact your child’s doctor if they have:

Although jumping on a trampoline is a fun form of exercise, it poses a high risk of injury. It’s generally recommended that you avoid using one. This includes mini and full-sized trampolines at home, parks, or gyms.

Children ages 6 or under should never jump on a trampoline. Older kids and adults can safely use one if they follow certain safety precautions.

If you decide to buy a trampoline, be sure to enforce the rules. Kids should always be supervised by adults. If your child has an accident, get medical help immediately.

Last medically reviewed on July 23, 2020

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