As Trampolines Triple in Popularity, Stats Suggest Bouncers are Being Safer; Industry Predicts Even Greater Surge in Sales With Olympic Debut in Sydney.

Business Editors

LOGAN, Utah--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 22, 2000

With trampolining making its event debut at the 2000 Summer Olympics, the industry predicts growing enthusiasm among backyard jumpers -- and a likely corresponding increase in trampoline sales.

Meanwhile, the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics), whose dramatic recommendation to ban backyard trampolines has gained much media attention, insists that a 32 percent increase in trampoline injuries from 1990-1999 warrants such drastic action (National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, 1990-1998).

But the facts must be presented fairly, and what the AAP is not taking into consideration is the phenomenal increase in trampoline sales during that same time period -- a whopping 357 percent (International Trampoline Industry Association, April 2000).

Do the math, and the result is an entirely different verdict -- trampoline injuries appear to be going down, and, considering that the majority of trampoline injuries occur during improper use (NEISS), the number of jumpers who are following safety guidelines could very well be going up.

"If sales growth was moderate, then a 32 percent increase in injuries might sound significant. But the fact is, trampoline sales have more than tripled, and injuries have risen at a substantially lower rate," said Jace Jergensen, general manager of JumpKing, a leading trampoline manufacturer.

"This would suggest that kids and parents are taking a more responsible approach to jumping on the backyard trampoline, which we find very encouraging."

Advocates of trampoline jumping find the conclusions drawn by the AAP inflammatory.

"It's important that all the facts be presented, so that the public can make well-informed decisions," said Jergensen. "The types of claims made by the AAP makes trampolines out to be a higher risk than any other children's activities, and this is simply not the case."

In fact, NEISS data shows that trampoline activity produces fewer injuries than many other types of popular children's activities, including soccer, in-line skating, bicycling and playground equipment.

According to Jergensen, JumpKing continues to advocate proper trampoline usage and takes several measures to help communicate safety precautions to consumers, such as warning labels and product literature outlining specific safety guidelines. Safe jumping, Jergensen believes, is key to reducing the chance of injury.

The statistics seem to agree, showing that 57 percent of trampoline injuries occur when a major safety precaution -- only one person on the trampoline at a time -- is not followed (NEISS).

To reduce trampoline injuries such as sprains, fractures, scrapes, bruises, and cuts, participants should follow these important safety guidelines as stated in literature and warning labels provided with JumpKing trampolines.

-- Do not attempt or allow somersaults.

-- Do not allow more than one person on the trampoline. Use by more than one
person at the same time increases the chance of injury.

-- Always provide adult supervision when children are jumping.

-- Do not use the trampoline in improper weather conditions like rain and snow.


-- Do not jump on the trampoline when wet.

-- Never lean on the trampoline pads while another person is jumping.

-- Jump only during daylight hours.

-- Read instructions before using the trampoline.

-- Inspect before using and replace any worn, defective or missing parts.

-- Use the trampoline only with mature, knowledgeable supervision.

-- Trampolines are not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

"The benefits of trampoline activity are numerous and far outweigh the risks," said Lani Lokendahle, executive director of ITIA (International Trampoline Industry Association) and USA Gymnastics Trampoline Program director of safety.

"It is an enjoyable aerobic exercise which encourages physical fitness among children and adults. Like any other physical activity, risk will be minimized when responsible use takes place."

The past decade has shown an alarming increase in inactivity among children with more children becoming obese. Time spent on the couch playing video games and watching TV should be focused towards positive free play.

A report released this month from SGMA (Sporting Goods Manufacturer's Association) indicates that more than half of 6 to 11 year-olds are not frequently active and 10 percent are completely sedentary. Free play, an important activity for children in that age range, is probably in decline, as are physical education programs in schools.

Trampolining, when practiced safely and appropriately, provides a fun way to get kids active and keep them healthy.

For more information about JumpKing visit the Web site at www.jumpking.com or call 800/322-2211.

JumpKing is the premier brand of trampolines and accessories for both exercise and recreational use. JumpKing products are manufactured with superior craftsmanship which is reflected in the attention given to quality and safety. JumpKing products, manufactured in Garland, Texas, are a subsidiary of ICON Health & Fitness Inc.