How to Safely Use a Floating Trampoline and Have More Fun Than Ever

How to Safely Use a Floating Trampoline and Have More Fun Than Ever

As far as fun lake ideas go, what could be more awesome than a floating trampoline? You can use it as a diving platform or simply enjoy bouncing on it all day. As an added bonus, it's a great way to exercise in the summer without getting too hot.

That said, any activity you do on the water is inherently risky. Anytime you are on the water extra safety precautions must be taken. For instance, if your floating trampoline isn't properly anchored, it can float into dangerous waters. The water could be too shallow or have obstructions beneath the surface.

If your floating trampoline is damaged or incorrectly assembled, it could sink. This can be dangerous for anybody on it and it will be the end of your fun. Injuries are more likely when precautions aren't taken and attention to detail isn't followed.

Fortunately, you can avoid these worst-case scenarios by following the important safety tips listed below. Read on to learn what you need to know.

How Does a Floating Trampoline Compare to a Regular Trampoline?

In most respects, a floating trampoline functions very similar to a normal trampoline. Other than the obvious fact of one trampoline floating and one being stationary on land there are a few other differences also.

Both types of trampolines need to be assembled and both can be disassembled and moved to another location. Floating trampolines can easily be removed from the water and moved to another location.

If you have a vacation home on a lake, but also would like to use the trampoline somewhere else it can easily go back and forth. You just need to allocate appropriate amount of time.

You can extend the life of both trampolines with proper winter care. Floating trampolines will need to be removed from the water in colder climates. For backyard trampolines it is normally best to remove the jump surface, but the frame can stay. At a minimum you should put a cover on the trampoline.

A floating trampoline frame is supported on the water by an inflatable tube instead of steel legs with no give. Thus, the water absorbs some of the bouncing energy when people jump on it. You will still get a good bounce, but probably not the big springs into the air that you get on the backyard type.

Not only can you jump on a floating trampoline but you can also use it as a swim platform or a place to relax and sunbathe. It can also be your water sports or games headquarters. There are numerous games to play on a floating trampoline and they will bring your enjoyment to the next level!

Is a Floating Trampoline the Same as a Bouncer?

Water bouncers have a much simpler design than floating trampolines. They use no rigid frame or springs. Instead, the bouncing surface is threaded and attached directly to the inflatable tube. This makes water bouncers far easier to set up than floating trampolines; but they're also significantly less bouncy. 

Thus, adults and older kids won't have as much fun on water bouncers, but it's a very good option for entertaining toddlers and young children. The gentle bouncing action is safer and more fun for little ones and it will be plenty to maximize their young fun! You can still use a floating water bouncer for all of the same games, watersports, swimming, and relaxing activities as a floating trampoline.

How to Have Fun on a Floating Trampoline

So, what can you do on your floating trampoline? Well, there are a lot of possibilities, especially if you have a little creativity. Many of our friends have created their own games and you can do the same. Here are a few great games to try out.

Anti Gravity Ball

When you and a friend are jumping at the same rate, both rising and falling at the same time, you can play a game known as 'Anti-Gravity Ball'. In short, you will be simply tossing the ball back in forth, but the added effects of springing up and free falling down you get a cool experience.

Since you, your partner, and the ball are all falling at the same time, the ball appears to float in the air. You can "float" it slowly back and forth to each other, pretending you're astronauts in outer space. This is a fun way to play Hot Potato, too.

Crack the Egg

Crack the Egg is a classic trampoline game that's a lot safer on the water. One person (the "egg") lays on the trampoline and assumes a cannonball position.

That is, their knees are pressed against their chest with their arms wrapped around them. Their hands are clasped together to hold their knees in place.

After that, the rules are simple. The other players bounce on the trampoline until the "egg" can't hold the cannonball position any longer.

If their hands let go or their legs slip out of position, the egg is cracked and the game is over. On a water trampoline you can also try to bounce them off into the water! Then, a new player is chosen as the egg. Be very careful not to step on the egg while bouncing!

Copycat

This game starts with one player doing a trick in the center of the trampoline. The next player copies the trick, then performs a second trick.

Player 3 copies both tricks, adds a third trick, and so on. The game is over when a player fails to perform a trick or performs the tricks in the wrong order.

Safety Tips For Using a Floating Trampoline

Always read and follow the official instruction manual when setting up your floating trampoline. Make sure all frame pieces, springs, straps, and buckles are fastened securely in place.

Anchoring is essential for safety as well. It ensures that your trampoline doesn't free-float into dangerous areas.

We recommend that you use an anchor that's at least 150 pounds. Concrete blocks work well. Additionally, use multiple anchors for more stability and in case one of the anchors were to break loose.

Don't push or shove other jumpers while jumping. Follow the trampoline's official guidelines concerning:

• Age recommendations
• Weight restrictions
• Recommended number of jumpers at one time
• Prohibited actions or activities

General swimming safety rules also apply. Most importantly, appoint an adult to supervise the activity at all times.

Test water depth before diving into the water. And make sure all divers have surfaced before anyone else dives in.

How to Keep Your Floating Trampoline in Great Condition

Your safety also depends on the condition of your floating trampoline. Here are some maintenance tips to keep your trampoline looking sharp and maintaining performance.

Never drag the trampoline tube on the ground. Instead, lift it when taking it into and out of the water onto shore.

Keep sharp objects away from the trampoline at all times. That includes making sure that jumpers empty their pockets before jumping. Pocketed rocks, keys, and writing utensils can puncture the trampoline tube or the jumpers themselves.

If you own waterfront property, you may keep the trampoline setup (and very well-anchored) all summer. Check the air pressure periodically and re-inflate it when it's low. You will want to take it out of the water and store it for the winter. Keeping it out of the elements will certainly extend the life and maximize your enjoyment.

Each time you store it, deflate it and towel-dry it completely. Clean it thoroughly and allow it to completely air dry before long storage.

Fold it nicely and keep it in a dry area that's safe from rodents. Storing it in an airtight plastic crate is a good idea, too.

Stay Safe While Enjoying Your Floating Trampoline

Keep this guide accessible so you can refer to it while setting up and using your floating trampoline. Always adhere to these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the lake. 

If you don't have a floating trampoline yet, stop missing out on all the fun! Browse our selection here and contact us if you have any questions.

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