Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Isstalled Correctly, A Trampoline Offers Fun And Fitness

By Jane Bracken

When placing a trampoline in your yard the surface of the trampoline must be level. Otherwise this wonderful fitness tool can become a hazard instead. Either the ground must be level or raised or lowered properly such that the trampoline surface is level.

Every person knows that the best trampolines are set up on a completely flat surface. This ensures that when people are jumping, there is no risk of the trampoline tipping or rocking in place. There are several ways to keep the trampoline level, including digging.

It is possible to set up a trampoline on a slope. Your yard may be such that this is a necessity. If you're faced with this situation the best approach is to dig a trench or holes where one or more of the trampoline bars or legs will sit, thus giving the trampoline a level surface once set up.

You could also rise the earth under one or more legs of the trampoline to achieve the same result. In some cases this may be your best option although it is generally more difficult to do than digging a hole or a trench. For one thing, adding sand or earth will usually not provide the same stability as can be achieved through digging.

Is your trampoline surface nice and level? Then it's time to start having some fun. Trampoline workouts are a great way to start a program of physical fitness. These workouts also have the benefit of improving the lymphatic system and increasing your protection against virus infections and related problems.

When you get started, find a few simple exercises to help you condition your body. Three very good ones are the toe touch, pike, and super jacks. They're easy to learn and fun to do. The toe touch, which can be done even if others are on the trampoline with you, consists of touching your toes three times while airborne. This is great for your midsection and stretches your muscles as well.

Pikes and super jacks are best done with no one else on the trampoline. For pikes, while airborne pull your legs in front of you three times before landing. This is not easy but works wonders for your arms and midsection. In super jacks you perform three jumping jacks in mid-air before landing. These two excercises require good height and coordination and are also quite strenuous, but very rewarding.

You should have a safety net installed as part of your trampoline. Landing on the edge or missing the trampoline and hitting the ground instead can cause serious injury. A safety net is therefore highly recommended. Another good piece of advice is to do some stretching before beginning your workout. This will stretch and warm the muscles and lessen the chance of a strained or pulled muscle later on - 15438

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