WANT TO KNOW THE DIFFERENCE?
The geometric shape of a trampoline is the deciding factor on all bounce elements that trampoline will have. Because of its significance, the shape also affects the safety and performance of the trampoline.
FACTORS AFFECTED BY SHAPE
- BALANCE
The ease with which you are able to maintain your center of gravity between left & right - CONTROL
The ease with which you are able to direct your jump path/progression - EFFORT
The ease with which you are able to maintain a sustained height - HEIGHT
The overall height you can achieve
SPRING AND FRAME
Effort is largely affected by the springs & frame. Small springs will quickly bottom out and do not provide much lift; this will be more noticeable the larger the trampoline. Springs that bottom out will cause increased stress on joints and lower back.
Trampoline frames made from many pieces tend to flex due to the necessary “wiggle room” between joints, which reduces bounce efficiency. This flex absorbs energy, lowers bounce height, adds delay, and increases effort—similar to running on sand versus cement. A one-piece frame would offer the best performance, but it’s impractical for transport. Fewer frame pieces result in a firmer, higher-performing bounce.
TRAMPOLINE SHAPES
ROUND
Round trampolines are best described as entry level trampolines. These are most commonly & most suitably used with an enclosure for small children; essentially, and outdoor playpen.
Round trampolines naturally pull jumpers toward the center due to their spring layout. While this might seem beneficial, it actually limits control and balance. The only stable spot is the center “sweet spot,” where the jumper is evenly supported by all springs. Outside of this area, balance and bounce control are compromised.
When sharing the jumping surface with multiple jumpers, these issues become worse.All the springs are being used simultaneously when jumping on a round trampoline, causing springs to be shared when multiple users are jumping at the same time. You will notice your balance and control are even more affected, and the tendency of being redirected to the center of the trampoline increases the chance for collision among jumpers.
A note of caution when purchasing round trampolines: while there are quality round trampolines available, many carried by department stores are low cost/low quality models. Pay careful attention to maximum frame and spring weight capacity.
OCTAGONAL
Octagon and square-shaped trampolines are the mid ground between round and rectangular. This is typical of overall product quality and bounce quality.
The major difference between rounds and octagons is in having distinct sides. Sides form reference points around the trampoline, which decrease the deflection the jumper experiences when off center. This ultimately increases the jumper’s control, balance, & degree of effort experienced when off center. All of these make the trampoline safer & more fun to use.
RECTANGULAR
The ultimate design for trampolines; they are the primary shape used by gymnastics and diving clubs. These have always been our most popular trampolines for residential use.
The 4-sided frame of a rectangular provides the best bounce. More so than a square shape as the shorter span widthwise provides an incredibly stable, incredibly reactive bounce while the increased length offers tons of space to jump around. Rectangular frames give the most consistent & controlled bounce.
Rectangular trampolines do have a drawback in that their shape is not self-supporting. This issue is enhanced when frames are outfitted with strong springs. However, a heavily reinforced frame makes all the difference. While priced higher, well-built rectangular trampolines give you the most bounce for your buck.
