Statistics on Trampoline Injuries You Should Know

In many homes, trampolines are a backyard staple — especially in households with children. But even those who don't have kids may use an exercise trampoline as part of their weekly workout routine.

Although they're popular, trampolines aren't necessarily the safest piece of equipment when used improperly. Poor landings and collisions cause a large number of trampoline injuries each year. Learn exactly how many people get injured on trampolines annually and how you can stay safe as you jump.

Jumping on the trampoline causes more annual hospital visits than you may think. In 2018, more than 300,000 people were treated for trampoline-related injuries across the country, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). There were also about 110,000 emergency room visits caused by trampoline accidents that year.

Luckily, the number of deaths caused by trampoline accidents is significantly lower. Between 2000 and 2009, there were about 22 total deaths caused by trampoline accidents and injuries, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Although we still need more current research on the subject, these numbers may be higher right now. A UK-based study published in ‌Bone & Joint Open‌.) found a spike in trampoline injuries since 2019, likely because of increased trampoline use during COVID lockdowns, as more people spent time at home.

More than 90 percent of trampoline injuries happen to children between the ages of 5 and 14, per the AAOS. And most of the damage happens when two jumpers hop at the same time and collide.

But other trampoline injuries happen when a jumper falls on the mat, springs or trampoline frame (all of which are pretty stiff, metal pieces). Often, injuries also happen when jumpers try to flip or fall off the trampoline into the ground.

Most trampoline injuries are sprains or fractures in the jumper's arms or legs, per the AAOS. But more intense injuries are possible and do happen. Landing with poor form when doing tricks can cause neck injuries, which often have more severe implications, like paralysis.

Before you (or your kids) start jumping, double check that the trampoline is assembled as safely as possible. You want to double check that padding covers the entire frame of the trampoline, including the hooks and springs, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Also, check your trampoline for tears or detachments before each trampoline workout or jump session.

You may be an expert at trampoline workouts but accidents happen, even for the most experienced athletes. When you're jumping, keep a phone within arms reach in case of an emergency.

Young kids jumping on a trampoline need close adult supervision. This is important both in your backyard or in gym classes and trampoline recreation facilities, according to the AAOS.

It's not recommended that children under 6 jump on trampolines at all and it's best that only one kid jump at a time. Also, try to prevent kids from doing tricks, like flips or belly flops.

Despite that they're called safety nets, they don't actually provide much safety. You don't want to rely on the netting to catch you or your kids. And for outdoor trampolines, remove any ladders to prevent small kids from climbing up and jumping without supervision.