Trampoline enclosures, known also by other terms such as safety nets and trampoline nets are protective devices designed to fit most of the commercially available trampolines. There are different sizes available such as square, rectangular, circular and octagonal trampolines.
Trampolines are meant to be enjoyed, both by adults and children. Trampolines enable people to experience instant flying in the air thru routine jumping. The springs and mat creates a stronger upward push when hit, making the jumper to go as high as possible. Trampoline versatility and uses has also greatly increased. Primarily, it was only used for competitions but now, trampolines can also be used for recreational and exercise purposes. Largely due to this demand for trampolines across the globe, manufacturers have developed and improved the safety features of trampoline. Many related accidents where brought by falling awkward out of the trampoline area. As such, trampoline enclosures have come to the market.
Figure 1: Trampoline enclosures prevent accidents and mishaps from occurring
These trampoline enclosures consist of a large net and several poles. The poles are attached to the metal frames around the perimeter of trampoline in equal distances. These poles are foam padded, with height of about 6 feet above the trampoline mat. Foam padding minimizes the chances of physical injuries in case of metal-to-body contact. The net is looped around the poles, and the attaching straps are fastened to ensure snug fitting. The lower part of the net is tucked between the safety pads and the trampoline metal framework. The safety pads are located along the edges of the trampoline.
Most injuries that have resulted from playing on trampolines are on children and young teens. This resulted to numerous case studies with the objective of identifying if trampoline enclosures are indeed effective in preventing the jumpers from falling off outside the trampoline. During the initial testing, it was found that these trampoline enclosures do not provide sufficient support. Some nets get torn in 3 years or less. Torn nets are as worst as without nets. As added information, here are the identified main causes of injuries related to trampoline activities:
- Self injuries due to improper training and trying new skills or tricks without proper supervision;
- Falling off to the ground, or outside the trampoline mat;
- Contact with metal springs and/or trampoline frames;
- Two or more jumpers at the same time when it is generally not allowed, except for cases of synchronized jumping wherein people are effectively trained and practiced; and
- Improper getting off from trampolines.
We are particularly interested in main cause #2. Injuries such as fractures and head concussions are just some casualties that have resulted from unintentional falling off to the ground. Trampoline enclosures are supposed to minimize these occurrences.
These analyses and results have pushed manufacturers to improve their product. Some retaliated by providing extensive warranty coverage. Some designed their trampoline enclosures with higher material quality.
Statistical evidence failed to show whether improved versions of trampoline enclosures are indeed useful or not. However, there are findings that suggest that trampoline enclosures have an effect to boost the confidence of first time users. Parents, in addition, have the general perception of safety with these nets. There are many contributing factors that have lead to this conclusion such as the user’s behavior while on the trampoline to the inherent net material defects. As such, it is still a great debate whether to procure trampoline enclosures or just leave the trampoline as is.
The choice ultimately remains with the trampoline user.
