FUN is always a priority, but it’s never fun once someone gets hurt without a doubt. So to avoid some unwanted tears, here’s some quick and easy Vikan safety tips!

One At A Time
Although it may seem fun to go with a few friends or with mom or dad, but this can be more hazardous than most people think. The common thought about trampolines are injuries from falling off, but the most common trampoline injuries are twisted ankles. The majority of twisted ankles are from double bouncing. When you get propelled up from another bounce abruptly, it can result in spatial unawareness which leads to awkward landings. Therefore, the safest way to bounce is to take turns.

Bare Feet
Vikan mats (bouncing surfaces) prevent slipping to a degree due to our high performance textured material versus a non-textured material, but sometimes slips are unavoidable with socks. There are socks available with grips on the soles that trampoline parks use, but for backyard use, bare feet are your best option for avoiding unwanted slips.

Stay In the Middle
Encourage your child to stay in the middle of the trampoline. For one, it’s the best and bounciest spot! This will avoid falling off and getting too close to the steel frame and springs under that safety pads. A great way to ensure your child stays in the middle is to draw a smiley face in the center!

Motorcycle Stop
The first, most important skill to learn when bouncing on a trampoline, no matter what age you are, is the motorcycle stop. A motorcycle stop is used when you begin to bounce and want to stop. Instead of landing with your legs straight putting force and strain on your knees, make sure to land as if you are sitting on a motorcycle in a squat like position. This way the bounce force is eased and can prevent knee and back spinal strain injuries.

Have A Spotter
Especially when you have a young child, it is important to always supervise your child no matter what. Accidents are unavoidable so there must be someone watching in case something goes wrong. If you are attempting something new, make sure there is someone who knows and is trained to spot.

Don’t Overdo It
A backyard is a different situation from a gymnasium and sometimes your parent or supervisor cannot properly coach or spot you. If you have any doubt about a skill and think you are going to hurt yourself, take a break and don’t push yourself. Stick to what you know unless you feel completely comfortable and have been properly trained.

Step Off
Many trampoline injuries are not because of the trampoline, but rather have been jumped onto off of roofs and tree branches and flying off into a hospital bed. Jumping off the trampoline is also never a good idea. Take your time and carefully step off or use a ladder to safely touch back onto the ground.

Anything Under There?
Make sure there is nothing under the trampoline. The mat will not touch the ground, but bouncing and then hitting a hard object while performing a seat drop will not be a safe and happy landing.

Enclosure vs. No Enclosure?
Many worried parents hear about all the injuries ‘caused’ by trampolines, but is it really the trampoline? Trampolines are healthy and fun when used correctly. When safety precautions are not taken, is when accidents and injuries occur. So is an enclosure a must-have for safety? Well that can be debated. Sure an enclosure will protect your child from falling off, but that does not mean adult supervision is no longer necessary. Our kids can surprise us with their imaginations and try new things that may not be the safest idea. Even with enclosures, poor safety etiquette can occur. Although if you can’t help yourself, enclosures will provide a further sense of safety and can allow you to feel more at ease as a parent.