Trampolines are great for exercise, learning new gymnastics routines, and more. They’re quite popular, but how do they work? Learning how a trampoline functions will help you make it bouncier and prevent it from rusting, corroding, or falling apart.
Let’s face it, having a bouncier machine will help us achieve Mission: Backyard Adventure. It also makes it much more fun for flips and tricks!
A trampoline works by creating tension through springs connected to the durable fabric and an outer ledge. As the stable ledge holds the springs, they extend and build tension. Once the person jumps, the springs go back to their compressed form, propelling the person upwards equal to the energy released.
In this article, we’ll talk about how a trampoline works and various tips to make your trampoline bouncier. We’ll also discuss why some trampolines lose their bounce and what you can do to preserve your springs, fabric, and poles.
How Does a Trampoline Work?
Trampolines are very fun to use, but they can be a bit mind-boggling if you’re unsure of how they work. How can thin fabric launch a person into the air, sometimes going over five to ten feet high? The good news is you’re in the right place to find out how your trampoline works and why the springs are an important part of the whole process.
So, how do springs and fabric provide such a high bounce?
Tight Fabric Is Connected to a Stable Edge
Creating a high bounce requires tension and a little bit of release. Your trampoline wouldn’t work without fabric designed to push down and pull up. The fabric is pulled tightly to the ledge, which doesn’t move at all. Since the fabric can be moved, but the ledge is stable and immovable, all of the energy goes through the fabric.
Spring Extension Creates the Bounce Effect
According to Astro Jump, trampolines provide bouncing through Hooke’s Law, a scientific law that claims the longer the extension of a spring, the greater the force produced will be. In other words, adding more weight to the trampoline will make the springs have more tension and bounce.
If you barely wobble on the trampoline, it won’t move much. If you do a full jump from a crouched position, it adds more weight, tension, and bounce from the spring’s release.
All trampolines are bouncy, but there’s no denying some are much bouncier than others. If you want to make your trampoline more exciting to use, it all starts with the spring’s tension. Learn more about increasing your jump height on a trampoline in the following section.
How to Make a Trampoline Bouncier
Most trampolines have enough bounce for the average person, but if you’re a gymnast or want to try new tricks that require additional height, it might not be enough. Fortunately, there are a few ways to make your trampoline bouncier.
Every trick in the book requires spring adjustments. Some people claim you can add water to enhance a trampoline’s bounce, but there’s no proven evidence. If you want real, achievable results, follow this five-step process:
- Remove the net around the trampoline to clear your workspace. If your trampoline has a net and high poles, it’s important to move them out of the way so you can access all of the grommets and springs.
- Pull two springs off of the outer pole. You can keep the other side of each spring connected to the grommets on the fabric since they’ll remain the same on that end.
- Cross the springs and connect them to the outer pole and fabric. Your springs should make an X shape. Layering the springs into an X formation enhances the tension, creating more bounciness.
- Perform steps 2 and 3 around the entire trampoline, ensuring all springs are crossed and secured. Trampoline springs can be quite difficult to remove, so we suggest using the Sanjoin Trampoline Spring Pull Tool. Hook it around the spring and pull it to the opposite hole on the outer edge.
- Reattach the net and test your trampoline’s bounciness. It’s best to add the net and poles before testing your trampoline because the bounce might be unexpectedly high. You wouldn’t want to roll off the edge, so the net is a must-have.
Making your trampoline bouncier is a fantastic way to have a blast throughout the year. If you want more tension and bounce, review this YouTube video by Sebby Clemens to learn how you can double-layer your trampoline’s springs:
Why Do Trampolines Lose Their Bounce?
Not all trampolines are created equal. Some of them are cheap and lose their bounce in a couple of years. If your trampoline doesn’t feel the same or you’re worried about not having enough height, you’ll find a handful of explanations below.
- Broken springs can ruin trampolines. Get Trampoline explains most tension and bounce issues are related to old, worn springs. If the springs lose their tension from overextension (setting stuff on the trampoline for a long time), they won’t be as bouncy as they used to be.
- Low-end trampolines use fabric that can wear down and become less bouncy. If the fabric isn’t tight and durable, the springs won’t be able to propel the weight as much as they should. Keep your trampoline’s fabric in good condition by cleaning it regularly and keeping sharp objects away from it.
- Rusted poles, grommets, and springs will scrape and slow the bounce. Corrosion will quickly deteriorate a trampoline’s metal components. As you read above, the springs are primarily responsible for the bounce effect. Use rust removal sprays to restore your springs, and don’t shy away from treating them for water resistance and UV resistance.
In Summary
Now that you know how a trampoline works, you can cross to V-shape the springs to get the most bounce possible. Remember to inspect your trampoline’s springs for rust and the fabric for tears to keep it preserved for a long time to come. Trampolines can handle quite a bit of weight, but it’s crucial never to exceed the weight limit.
