Tumbling on the trampoline caught on like wildfire in the early 1960s, and still enjoys great popularity today, but the sport also still involves the same potential dangers. Trampolines in the last 45 years have gone from being an institutional or recreation center piece of equipment, to something that is found in many homes, in a variety of sizes and quality.

From a simple, round trampoline of relatively small dimensions, to the large, outdoor models sold for family fun, every trampoline represents the possibility of injury, if not used properly, or if used by those not experienced in tumbling or acrobatics.

Here are some simple tips to make your sure that you enjoy the fun of a trampoline, while eliminating many of the risks.

* Placement

Never set up even a small, exercise trampoline indoors where there is a risk of hitting light fixtures or the ceiling. Outdoors, place trampolines well away from clotheslines, tree limbs, fences, outdoor furniture, and other objects that can cause injury when someone falls off.

If at all possible, secure your trampoline by setting its legs/supports down into the ground, thereby reducing the distance of a fall. At the same time, it's advisable to provide padding to a depth of 10" or more, for at least 10' around the trampoline.

* Clothing

Anyone using the trampoline should wear clothing loose enough to allow freedom of movement, but not the chance that limbs could become entangled in extra folds. Jewelry should be removed before getting on, as should the contents of any pockets, and eyeglasses that are not secured by a headband. If you do not have trampoline footwear, then bare feet are best, as socks can cause you to slip.

* Training and Supervision

No child or adult, should be allowed to attempt complicated tumbling such as summersaults, when they have not had adequate training. Incorrect landing positions can cause serious and disabling injuries. Supervision should be provided for everyone who is learning to use a trampoline for the first time.

Ideally, there should be someone on hand who can instruct them in simple maneuvers, and who is also versed in first aid for injuries. Alternately, it may benefit everyone, to join a gym for a class in proper trampoline use, including mounts and dismounts.

* One At a Time

The chance of injury soars when more than one person gets on a trampoline at the same time. This can be the result of collisions, or upsetting another person's balance, causing them to fall. Unless you are a trained "spotter", all others waiting a turn, should stand away from the trampoline while someone else is using it.

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Paul Johnson works as a software developer, often working long hours under great stress. He considers exercise crucial to his health. When purchasing his own fintess equipment he researched all available products. Now he's written a series of useful articles on choosing (and using) exercise equipment.