Trampoline size and weight limit: How to choose the right one

by Joost Nusselder Updated on: September 18, 2023

A trampoline offers a lot of fun, often for the whole family.

Jumping is good for the motor development of young children and is an easy way to keep moving for older children (and yes, for parents too).

The first question most people ask is “from when can my child jump on a trampoline?”

To be honest, that depends a little bit on the development of your child, but the average age that a child can safely jump on a trampoline is from about 3 to 4 years old. At that age, motor control is usually already quite good.

In any case, it is a good idea to check in advance the age category of the trampoline you have in mind.

For example, is it still too high? Then consider choosing a smaller trampoline.

It is also good to know that a trampoline with short springs is more suitable for inexperienced jumpers and a trampoline with long springs is just fine for experienced jumpers, who can then go nice and high!

We have divided the trampolines into four age categories from toddler to teenager, based on the developmental stages of children from baby to teenager.

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How big should your trampoline be?

Now that you've decided which trampoline shape is best for your family, it's time to think about the size of the trampoline. The following three things are important for the selection process:

• Size of your garden
• Age category
• Carrying weight and size of the jumping mat

The size of your future trampoline depends entirely on who will jump on it and your garden.

Trampoline size chart for the size of your garden

So the first step in choosing the right size trampoline is to look at the available space you have.

It is actually quite difficult to indicate which trampoline is best for your garden in terms of size, because everyone has a different idea of ​​what is large or small.

So first see what the actual space is that you have and whether the trampoline you have in mind will fit in it at all.

For your convenience, a list has been made below with the size of your garden and which round or rectangular trampoline could possibly fit in it.

What you also have to take into account is the fall zone if there is no net around the trampoline. That is a distance of 1.5 m around the trampoline, which you must keep free.

Maximum carrying weight of the trampoline

How much weight a trampoline can support is probably one of the most important things to consider when buying a trampoline.

The weight of a trampoline depends on the size of the jumping mat and vice versa.

Exceeding the maximum weight capacity can cause the jumping surface to tear and cause accidents.

Since 2014, European legislation has established that the maximum loadable weight for smaller trampolines is always 50 kg. However, that is independent of what the smaller trampolines can carry or the quality of the trampoline.

You could possibly look at the manufacturer's test weight for small trampolines. The legal limit has been created to discourage unsafe use of smaller trampolines.

The carrying weight of larger trampolines is determined by the manufacturer, so it is important to check whether it has a quality mark!

Size of the jumping mat and loadable weight

The loadable weight and the size of the trampoline go hand in hand and age also plays a major role here.

Below you will find a table with average sizes, the maximum carrying weight of the trampoline and ages. It may be that it differs slightly per trampoline, but it will at least give you an idea.

Quality of the jumping surface

Number of springs

The number of springs on a trampoline is important because it affects the overall jumping performance of the trampoline. The number of springs determines how much bounce the trampoline has and how high someone can jump.

If a trampoline has too few springs, it will not have enough bounce to support the jumper's bounce. This can lead to an awkward landing and a less enjoyable jumping experience.

On the other hand, if a trampoline has too many springs, this can lead to an overly stiff jumping mat and reduced bounce.

However, the number of springs is not the only factor that determines the jumping performance of a trampoline. Other factors such as the length and thickness of the springs, the quality of the jumping mat and the frame design also play an important role.

That is why it is important to choose a trampoline that offers a good balance between the number of springs and these other factors in order to have an optimal jumping experience.

Thickness of the feathers

The thickness of the springs on a trampoline affects the jumping performance and comfort of the jumper. In general, the thicker the springs, the more bounce the trampoline has and the higher a person can jump.

Thick springs have more bounce because they have more tension and can store more energy than thinner springs. As a result, they can support more weight and enable higher jumps.

In addition to the spring force, the thickness of the springs also influence the comfort of the jumper. Thicker springs provide more cushioning and absorb more shock when landing on the jumping mat, so the jumper feels less impact and reduces the chance of injury.

Length of the feathers

The length of the springs on a trampoline also affects the jumping performance and comfort of the jumper. In general, the longer the springs are, the more bounce the trampoline has and the higher a person can jump.

Long springs have more play than short springs and can therefore store more energy. This allows them to support more weight and allow for higher jumps. In addition, long springs provide a smoother and more even bounce than short springs, adding to the overall jumping experience.

In addition to the spring force, the length of the springs also influence the comfort of the jumper. Long springs provide more cushioning and absorb more shock when landing on the jumping mat, so the jumper feels less impact and reduces the chance of injury.

Carrying capacity of different jumping mats

The carrying capacity of each jumping mat can vary depending on the quality and material.

On average, latex jumping mats offer the most strength and rigidity, followed by PVC mats, while the least load-bearing capacity is provided by foam or fiber fillings.

Latex jumping mats can carry up to 300 kilos, PVC mats up to about 200 kilos and foam or fiber fillings up to about 150 kilos.

The carrying capacity of a trampoline depends on the type of trampoline.

Most home trampolines have a weight capacity of 200 kg or less.

However, there are also models with a higher load capacity, up to 300 kg, or even 500 kg for the more professional models.

It is important to check the weight limit of the trampoline before using it.

The carrying capacity of an airtrack mat also varies greatly depending on the model.

Some models can carry a weight of up to 500 kg, while other models can only support a weight of up to 50 kg.

It is therefore also important here to consult the manual of the airtrack mat to find out what carrying capacity the model has.

Trampoline safety

A trampoline is not a toy, even though many people buy it as such for their child. No matter how much fun the playground equipment is, accidents can still happen.

This can happen because of a trampoline that does not meet the necessary safety requirements or perhaps due to incorrect installation or use.

Safety points to watch out for:

• Quality mark: a safe one trampoline has a quality mark. If all goes well, this will be indicated on the packaging.
• Safety net: the net prevents children from getting outside the jumping surface and falling over the edge. Some nets even ensure that the springs fall outside the jumping surface, so it is extra safe.
• Trampoliner Rim: this is quite simple, the thicker and wider the safety pad, the safer it is. In addition, a thick brim also helps to protect the springs and therefore they last longer.
• Stainless material: Of trampoline will be left outside for a large part of the year, which can cause rust to develop. Preferably choose a stainless frame, so that your... trampoline lasts for years.
• Sturdy frame: This is also not rocket science, the thicker the steel and larger the pipe diameter, the sturdier the trampoline will be.

A safety net at the trampoline

Make sure the net is firmly attached to the trampoline and stretches with the movements.

A safety net is included with many of the trampolines in our favorites list.

If this is not the case, consider buying it separately anyway.

Why do you always have to anchor large trampolines?

The method of anchoring may vary depending on the size and type of trampoline, but this generally applies larger trampolines require heavier anchoring. This may include using heavier anchors or more anchor points to ensure the trampoline stays securely in place during use.

Children 3 to 6 years

A 3-year-old child can already keep his balance, hop and jump reasonably well.

Children aged 4 to 6 are even better at this and really need to lose their energy; they therefore love to run, jump, frolic and do antics.

For children in this age group, an in-ground trampoline offers a lot of safety. That has everything to do with the fall height.

It is understandable that not everyone has the space for such an underground trampoline.

So if you just go for a safe, movable trampoline on legs, then a safety net is definitely recommended.

A diameter of 180 to about 200 cm is a good size for children in this age category.

When jumping, the children must be able to keep their balance, but they also improve their coordination while jumping.

It is very important that the suspension is not too stiff, because our kids are still light and of course they should not hurt themselves!

As a parent you have the choice between a round and a rectangular trampoline; a round trampoline is most suitable for smaller children.

The springs of a round trampoline are all tensioned equally, so the child is automatically guided to the center of the trampoline.

This makes the chance of ending up next to the trampoline a lot smaller.

Did you know that children aged 6 to 8 years spend on average at least two hours a day watching TV and using the computer?

Trampoline is therefore a very welcome activity for them!

Children from 7 to 10 years

For children in this age group you could opt for both a round and a rectangular trampoline; after all, these children are already very good at keeping their balance.

It's fun to socialize at this age and be able to jump on the trampoline with a friend, so you'll want to go for a larger diameter with a round model.

A diameter of 250 cm is a great option for two children.

If you prefer a rectangular trampoline, then one of 200/250 cm. at 300 a good option to romp together.

Choose a safety net if possible!

Around their sixth year, a child can already weigh about 20 to 25 kilos, so make sure that the trampoline can carry the correct maximum weight for several children at the same time.

Children from 10 to 14 years

Children aged 10 to 14 are usually already experienced jumpers who like to measure themselves against their peers.

You understand that these children especially want to jump hard and high and will play the necessary jokes with each other.

It is therefore good to look for a larger, rectangular trampoline that is suitable for several children at the same time.

It would be best to opt for a trampoline of at least 250 cm by 400 cm.

Choose a serious trampoline with an excellent load-bearing capacity, with somewhat longer springs and a robust safety pad.

The rectangular trampoline does not pull you towards the center, so it ensures comfortable jumping fun in a group.

Children from 14 years to adults

For children aged 14+ (and adults) who still like to jump a lot, you can consider a competition trampoline.

It has a rectangular shape and the jumping surface alone is 426 cm by 213 cm.

The total size of such a trampoline is 520 cm by 305 cm. It stands 118 cm above the ground.

The jumping surface of a competition trampoline is divided into sections with a cross in the middle.

If the jumper jumps on this red cross, he uses the bounce of the trampoline to the maximum.

This jumping surface is made of 4 mm thick, white braided strings and is mounted on a metal frame with 118 steel springs.

You could also go for a round trampoline with a diameter of about 465 cm.

It must have the correct carrying capacity and be suitable for making somersaults and other high jumps.

What to pay attention to when purchasing a trampoline?

You have decided that the trampoline is coming? Before you make the purchase, keep the following points in mind:

• The age category
• Jump alone or with several children?
• The weight of the children who will jump on the trampoline
• Your available space
• Bury or not?
• With or without safety net
• The surface on which the trampoline stands

Shape of the trampoline: round, rectangular or oval

There are 3 types of trampolines, each with its own advantages. We will tell you about the specific features.

Round trampoline

The tension on the springs, but also on the frame, is evenly distributed on a round trampoline. You automatically jump to the center on a round trampoline.

It is much more difficult to jump next to the trampoline or into the safety net: very suitable for the little ones, whose motor skills are not yet 100% developed.

However, this type of trampoline is less suitable for several children at the same time, because the chance of a collision is greater here than on a rectangular trampoline.

With a round trampoline, thinner and less steel is used for the frame.

This is because reinforcement for the round frame is not necessary: ​​the pressure on the frame is the same everywhere, in contrast to a rectangular frame.

The round trampoline is cheaper than the other models.

Rectangular

You won't bump into each other on a rectangular trampoline, nor will you bump into the edges as quickly.

Most trampolines in parks are rectangular, so that several children can jump on them at the same time.

Rectangular trampolines are more expensive than round trampolines because thicker steel is used for the frame.

The straight frame tubes must absolutely not bend during jumping, which requires extra reinforcement.

A rectangular trampoline often fits better in your garden, you don't lose as much space as with a round one.

Oval

We don't see them very often, but there are also oval trampolines. These are actually a combination of the round and the rectangular trampoline.

You are guided to the center when jumping here, but never exactly to the center point.

Oval trampolines are also more expensive to purchase than round trampolines.

The somewhat straighter tubes are also made a bit thicker here, because the frame must not bend while jumping.

Does the shape of the trampoline affect the repair costs?

The shape of the trampoline can influence the degree of wear of certain components, such as the springs and the jumping mat. With rectangular trampolines, the corners and edges may experience more stress, which is possible more frequent maintenance, repair or replacement of trampoline parts may require. However, it is important to note that maintenance and repairs are mainly dependent on factors such as usage, quality of materials and compliance with safety guidelines.

Regardless of the shape of the trampoline, regular maintenance and careful use is essential to extend its life and avoid unnecessary repair costs. Following the manufacturer's instructions and implementing safety measures are crucial to ensure the safety of users and maintain the durability of the trampoline.

What else should you pay attention to when buying trampolines?

In any case, keep our following tips in mind when you want to buy a trampoline:

• Is the space around the trampoline limited? Preferably choose a safety net
• For somersaults, a round trampoline must be at least 305 cm in diameter
• Never jump on the trampoline with shoes on; you prevent damage to the jumping mat and do not hurt anyone
• Most trampolines up to 240 cm can in any case bear a load of up to 50 kg; always pay attention to the maximum load capacity!

With these tips you already know more than 90% of people who have one want to buy a trampoline.

Closing comments

Exercise is nice, gives us a good feeling and is very important for health. Jumping on a trampoline is fun and doesn't take much effort, while activating all your muscles!

After a few hours of jumping, your (over)active or nervous child is also physically tired and wonderfully relaxed.

But not only that, your child also improves his motor skills.

On a trampoline you learn in a playful way (or show jumping?) to fall, get up, push off powerfully and perhaps do somersaults. The more a child practices, the more he dares.

A trampoline is a great purchase that children - and also parents - can't get enough of!

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.