Trampolining facts for kids

Trampolining is an exciting Olympic sport where athletes perform amazing flips and twists while bouncing high on a trampoline. It's like flying! Gymnasts do all sorts of moves, from simple jumps in different shapes (like the pike, tuck, or straddle) to complicated forward or backward somersaults and spins.

There are also other fun trampoline sports. These include synchronized trampoline, where two people bounce at the same time, and double mini-trampoline, which uses a smaller trampoline. In competitions, gymnasts usually perform two or three different routines. These routines show off their skills, combining somersaults, twists, and different body positions.

History of Trampolining

The idea for the modern trampoline came from an American gymnast named George Nissen. In the early 1930s, he watched trapeze artists at the circus. They would bounce off the safety net below them after their acts. George thought it would be cool to create a smaller version of that net.

So, he built the first modern trampoline in his garage! He used it to help him practice his diving and tumbling skills. This was the start of a brand new sport. In the USA, trampolining quickly became popular in schools. It was also used in fun entertainment centers. Since trampolining became an Olympic sport in the year 2000, many countries have started special programs. These programs help train athletes to become top trampolinists.

Images for kids

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  A double mini-trampoline used for training.

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  Computers help score trampoline routines.

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  The program cover from the first World Championships.

See also

In Spanish: Gimnasia en trampolín para niños