Ten years ago, if you had told me that almost every household with children and adequate space outdoors would soon have a trampoline in their garden I’d have said you were mad. Why would trampolining become so popular?

But this is exactly the situation we have today. Trampolining has quickly become immensely popular, and not just with children. Many adults have now enjoy the benefits of exercising with a trampoline.

Trampolining is not only great fun it is also great exercise for every muscle in the human body. It is an aerobic exercise that will increase the heart rate and consume more oxygen as the muscles are toned. Bouncing on a trampoline has also been shown to be beneficial to the human lymphatic system.

Before you rush and out and buy yourself an outdoor trampoline to bounce off those excess Christmas pounds you should give some thought to the space that you have and the size that is most suitable.

Circular outdoor trampolines tend to come in a range of standard diameters typically from 8 feet up to 14 feet. The maximum weight that a trampoline can take is largely determined by the size. If your trampoline is to be used by adults then you are likely to benefit from either a 12ft or a 14ft trampoline. However, if your trampoline is only to be used by children then a smaller 8ft or 10ft trampoline will be adequate.

It should be noted that most outdoor trampoline manufacturers state that their products should only ever be used by one person at a time. Statistics have shown that the majority of trampoline related accidents, some of which have been very serious, have taken place when there was more than one person on the trampoline. Also, it is commonly the smaller person who sustains the most significant injury.

Another factor to consider when buying your trampoline is the need for adequate and safe clearance around the trampoline perimeter. It should be located away from fences and walls, allowing enough space for users to safely mount and dismount.

Trampolines are much more than simple pieces of outdoor play equipment. If you choose your trampoline carefully it will last for years, providing safe bouncing fun and exercise.