Tuesday, January 20, 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.

If your trampoline is on a slope, the best trampoline position would be to dig a trench for the highest leg to rest inside. This would ensure that the trampoline would not slide down the hill or incline at any point in time.

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.

Once you've set up the trampoline properly it's time to have some fun and get in shape at the same time. Trampoline work stimulates the lymphatic system and thereby helps protect the body from viruses and other causes of illness. It's also a super way to start getting into good physical condition and getting used to regular workouts.

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.

A couple of final thoughts. Serious injury can occur if landing on the side of the trampoline or missing the trampoline surface completely. It's recommended that your trampoline be installed with a safety net to prevent this type of injury. Another good piece of advice is to stretch before beginning your trampoline exercises. Like any other physical activity, stretching will improve your performance and lessen the chance of muscular injuries. - 16928

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