‘Fun’ and ‘fitness’ are words that are not usually thrown in a sentence together. As a wellness advocate, I take advantage of the opportunity to promote fun in fitness when I can.
Trampolines go way back for most of us. As kids, this is usually a staple in our backyard or even in the neighborhood playground. We’ve all probably jumped while screaming at the top of our lungs on this at some point in our lives. Though those days are gone (for some of us), the benefits of jumping on exercise trampolines remain.
For one, it is a great full-body cardio workout. The intense and repetitive movements that jumping entails allows your muscles to work, increasing strength and tones at the same time.
Your core is also fully engaged as you balance in mid-air. Add to that the motion of your hands as you try to keep that balance, and you have an effective cardio workout.
Below, you’ll find some of the best exercise trampolines I’ve researched that are available today. These have been rated by overall popularity, purpose, and of course – durability!
Best Exercise Trampolines For Home Use Compared and Reviewed
| Image | Name | Brand | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Top | BCAN 40" Foldable Mini Trampoline | BCAN | Check Price on Amazon |
 | BCAN 38" Foldable Mini Trampoline | BCAN | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Stamina InTone Oval Jogger | Stamina | Check Price on Amazon |
 | JumpSport 250 In-Home Cardio Fitness Rebounder | JumpSport | Check Price on Amazon |
 | DARCHEN 450 lbs Mini Trampoline | DARCHEN | Check Price on Amazon |
#1 - BCAN 40" Foldable Mini Trampoline
At 40 inches in diameter, this is a pretty compact trampoline. It is also foldable, so you wouldn’t need to worry about storage or transporting it. Once folded, it shrinks to ¼ of the original size.
It has a built-in handle that is an added support feature when you’re jumping. I like that it is adjustable so both kids and full-grown adults can use it and you get 4 height options. Plus, it’s the handle is lined with foam so no calluses or skin burns from contact.
The borders of the surface are made with heavy-duty steel rings, which will ensure that you have solid yet gentle bounce. The trampoline’s surface is made of rubber, which is generally what most are made of as it offers great traction.
I like the peace of mind the springs bring, especially as it is covered with lots of padding. Usually, the main worry on trampolines is toe stubs from harder material enclosing the surface. On the BCAN, you’ll have a softer and safer land in case you veer sideways, slightly out of bounce.
This has a maximum weight capacity of 330 lbs. And with a one-year warranty on all the parts, it’s not difficult to see why this is a best seller.
PROS
- Added safety with surfaced lined with padded springs
- Adjustable handlebars
CONS
- Some say that the handlebars are flimsy
- Folding option difficult to do
#2 - BCAN 38" Foldable Mini Trampoline
With a max load of 30 lbs short of the 40” variant, this mini will surely withstand use and abuse as it is made of commercial-grade steel and Polypropylene material (PP). Just to give you an idea of how durable this is, it is also used in the automobile industry through car parts: bumpers, gas cans, and chemical tanks.
Like the 40”, you can fold this to a quarter of the original size, so you can easily fit it in under your bed, in your car, or behind the couch.
While many claims that trampolines are hazardous, which they can be if you don’t buy a high quality one, the build on the 38” ensures that users are safe from harm. It has an extended pad all around the trampoline which encloses the springs– the main hazard point in this equipment.
Another layer of safety would be the anti-slid rubber material, this goes on the surface you may come in contact with and also, behind the scenes. So any protruding spring or sharp object won’t be exposed.
It comes in two color variants: blue or gray. The manufacturer also claims 24/7 customer support.
PROS
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor because of PP material
- 360-degree extra padding for added safety
- Portable
CONS
- Some buyers claim that some of the springs aren’t attached when they received it
#3 - Stamina InTone Oval Jogger
With a lot of experience and products under their belt, it’s no doubt that they can create a ‘consumer’s choice’ trampoline.
At first look, you’ll notice the surface immediately is wider and has a big surface compared to other rebounders. It comes in an oval shape which I personally think would allow more stability and balanced compared to the usual circle.
Another thing I like about it is that it comes with resistance bands that you can use when you’re not bouncing on the rebounder or it can also make your jumping sessions more intense. You can also use these for active rests in between jumping reps.
Surprisingly, it comes with a fitness monitor providing you with simple statistics such as jumps/minutes and calories burned. While this has the potential of a great added feature, it loses its purposes as most users claim that it cant accurately count the jumps or steps made.
The rebounder comes with a handlebar that most exercises in the workout DVD (which it also comes with) uses. You can just the height of the handlebar but leaning to it would cause it to be a bit wobbly.
It has a lower weight capacity at 250 lbs. My take on this is while the Stamina has features that most premium rebounders have, it might run short on quality.
PROS
- Comes with resistance bands
- Fitness monitor included
- Workout DVD included
CONS
- Wobbly handlebars
#4 - JumpSport 250 In-Home Cardio Fitness Rebounder
For one, instead of being lined with springs, the elastic cords create the bounce and ensures a safer experience, avoiding toe stubs and foot slips altogether. Say goodbye to the risks brought upon by poking sharp metals.
These cords are also the attaching mechanism to the frame which ensures a more solid and sturdy rebounder. I also like how the elastics will surely produce a quieter sound and smoother bounce upon impact.
The manufacturer also claims that the elastic cords will help lessen the impact on the knees— which might be overselling for me as it isn’t backed up by any research. Nevertheless, it’s an added safety feature versus sharp, metal springs.
It has a 250 weight capacity and comes with a lifetime warranty on frame and legs, 2 years on mat and cords.
PROS
- Safer without the risk of sharp metals poking
- Made with elastic cords
- Quieter
CONS
- Users say that the warranty is not real
#5 - DARCHEN 450 lbs Mini Trampoline
The frame and the 6-legs are solidly crafted from heavy-duty alloy steel offering stability and eliminating the risk of topping over while bouncing. Like the JumpSport 250, you wouldn’t find any springs on this rebounder which is a personal preference as it is an added safety feature for me.
You’ll find tightly-pulled bungee cords instead of springs, that will create a quiet and gentler workout. So expect you’ll feel more supported in your jumps. Its 28-inch mat surface is made from PP, which is a material that’s easy to clean and can withstand outdoor conditions.
The manufacturer’s claim that this is the most purchased rebounder by professional athletes and trainers.
PROS
- High weight capacity
- Low impact jump with elastic cords
CONS
- Buyers say it is very difficult to assemble
My Number One Pick
- Folded Size Less Than 1/4 - Unique design allows you to fold the trampoline twice while wearing the safety pad, help you to store conveniently under the bed, in the car trunk or the closet, etc.
- Closed Designed Steel Spring - Compared with other trampolines using the band to attach the mat, BCAN chose the commercial steel spring to attach the mat and use the closed design to avoid sharp part displayed for safety.
- Anti-Slid and Waterproof - Covered by anti-slid rubber material, the steel tube not only make the trampoline safe but also make the jumping quiet. PP Mat consists of a waterproof material which is easy to clean.
- Efficient Indoor Exercise - BCAN trampoline is always taken as cardio equipment with high efficiency and fun. 10 minutes bounce exercise equals 1-hour jogging, 30 minutes cycling or 20 minutes swimming.
- Lifetime After-Sale Service - Any questions, 24/7 customer service.
What To Look Out For When Considering An Exercise Trampoline
The idea of rebounding or jumping on trampolines as a solid aerobic workout seems like a very strange concept for some. We all have perceived trampolines as a child’s plaything. However, there are a lot of benefits that you can yield from it.
Before we jump right into what you should consider when you buy one, let’s first talk about the benefits:
What are the benefits of exercise trampolines?
1. It is beneficial to the lymphatic system
According to certified lymphologist and writer of Well Being Journal, Dave Scrivens the rebounding motion or vertical movement caused by exercising on trampolines has numerous benefits for the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is basically connected tissues and organs that help the body to get rid of waste and toxins. In essence, exercise trampolines will help with detoxification.
As the lymphatic system does not have a ‘pumping’ mechanism unlike the arterial system, it has no way to move the fluid around. And the only way to stimulate lymphatic flow is through movement and exercise, internal massage, or gravitational pressure— all of which can happen while rebounding.
2. Helps improve eyesight
Scrivens also added, jumping on trampolines or rebounding highly stimulates all the internal organs. For one, it can move the aqueous fluid within the eyes which directly contributes to better eyesight.
3. Help reduce belly and overall fat
As with any cardiovascular exercise, rebounding is a great way to reduce body fat. It improves overall muscle strength and is a great way to burn calories. With the vertical movements, there is an increased focus on your core. As a high-intensity exercise, rebounding is a great way to burn fat.
4. Promotes bone strength
Exercise is generally a great way to strengthen the bones, and rebounding is one fun way to build on it. As bouncing only puts a small pressure on bones, it will stimulate their growth. Plus it also good for people with osteoporosis.
5. Helps with pelvic floor health
Many women change their bodies after pregnancy and childbirth. One effect is the weakening of their pelvic floor. For men, heavy weight lifting and bladder problems can contribute to pelvic floor issues.
It may not seem like it but the pelvic floor muscles get activated as you bounce on the trampolines according to a physiotherapist, Michelle Kenway.
Things to Consider When Buying An Exercise Trampoline
There are a lot of options available and you might just get lost on which trampoline is right for you. Let me help you narrow it down a bit with some of the things you should consider below:
What are your training goals?
What do you want to achieve by exercising on trampolines? Do you want to lose weight? Are you in it for the fun of it? Is it something you want to do with your kids?
As I’ve briefly stated above, there are a lot of benefits that come with rebounding. However, you cannot achieve all of your goals with a single trampoline. For one, if you want to get some strength training done, you can opt for one that has resistance bands included.
Having clear goals will definitely help you when you plan your purchase.
Do you have any medical conditions?
As with any workout equipment, it’s not for everyone. One factor to consider is if you have any physical injury or disability that may worsen if you start rebounding.
If so, I would highly recommend seeking your doctor’s recommendation and approval prior to using a trampoline.
What size is right for you?
Size is a big factor as it will dictate the range of exercises you can do. Initially, the bigger the mat, the more exercises you can do.
Most manufacturers have sizing options for the frame, mat, or handlebars’ height. I would prefer the ones with bigger frames and mats just cause it will allow me to do more on them. I recommend going for the biggest possible size for the space you have available.
What shape is right for you?
Yes, there are a lot of shapes: there are the usual circle and oval which I have on my best list above, but there are also square and rectangular ones. Selection of shape is a matter of your preference considering some other factors.
Say, you want a personal trampoline that you can exercise on a daily basis, then opting for a mini circle or oval-shaped one would suffice. However, if you plan on having rebounding sessions with a few people, then a larger and rectangular shape might more ideal.
Here are the features of each type:
- Rectangular trampolines – are usually used by professionals. Its shape makes it more location-friendly. You put it on patios, backyard corners, and smaller yards. These aren’t mostly used for recreation. You would experience a higher bounce on this but it is slightly more expensive than the round ones.
- Square Trampolines – these are considered the hybrid of round and rectangular ones. There’s not much info on how these differ from other shapes, but it has the space efficiency of a rectangular trampoline and the bounce of around one.
- Mini trampolines – perfect for fitness-related. They’re compact and affordable. And is one of the best alternatives for strength training.
- Round trampolines – this type is the safest of all. It has a safety-net enclosure feature while being lightweight and portable. It also has a great force distribution which is safer for the user.
Check the make of the base and assembly
Safety in trampolines is a priority. The base of your trampoline is the make or break factor. It is what holds the whole thing together so make sure you double or triple-check that.
A poorer quality trampoline would be very risky as this may break and cause accidents. Steel-make rebounders are more reliable, safer, and more sturdy. Additionally, you should also check how it is assembled.
Does it come with screw-in legs? You may want to avoid this as has a higher tendency to wear down which increases the risk of accidents and injury. I would prefer snap-in legs.
Check Parts Replacement Availability
Even if you buy the most expensive trampoline that claims to have the highest quality, you can’t completely eradicate the chance of it breaking some parts in the long run.
So check with the manufacturer what their policy is on replacements. It will not be practical to buy a new one all over again just because of a few broken parts.
Does it come with an enclosure?
As the safety nets that surround the trampoline, enclosures ensure that you won’t fall on the ground in case you fall out of the mat area. While most trampolines do not come with this, it would be good to check and ask if they have it.
Does it offer a Warranty?
As I have mentioned before, a warranty implies that your purchase protected. Having this is an added feature that is also important to have.
Read reviews and research
For any equipment that you’ll be spending money on, make sure you read and research. There is a lot of information out there that you will easily pick up pointers on. Just make sure that you are reading reliable sources.
Tight Fitting
The shoes should provide tight-fitting, or contain a quick lace system such as the Salomons. As your foot gets heavier and heavier the more obstacles you go through it has the potential to fall off your shoe (Such as my example with the Vans).
They will also get very wet so you want to ensure that they don’t slide off or another competitor accidentally steps on them halfway through the obstacle course and then putting them on and tightening them will become a mission in itself.
Easily Cleaned
You want to get the most out of your shoes, you don’t want to have to throw them away after running just one obstacle course. You will want to look for materials that are easily cleaned such as GoreTex or synthetic materials. If you start running with a shoe that contains a lot of cotton material then you’re not going to get much use of them afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions for Exercise Trampolines
Q: How do I clean my trampoline?
A: Trampolines are fairly easy to clean. The mat can easily be wiped off with a cloth damped in warm water. Avoid using any detergent, cleaning solutions or hot water as it may damage the mat. If there’s a stain you’re itching to remove, just use mild soap.
Q: How do I safely jump on a trampoline?
A: In order to jump as safely as possible, you should always start at the center of the trampoline. When you start jumping, the tendency is you want to go higher. Once you start feeling like you’re losing control, stop jumping higher. Tricks are also highly discouraged without professional supervision.
Q: How do I prevent stains on my trampoline?
A: If your trampoline is outside, it has to be able to endure weather conditions– these will surely mark on your trampoline’s safety pad. In order to prevent this, wash your safety pad regularly. You can also opt to buy a weather cover just to make sure that dirt or any other substance does not touch the trampoline.
Conclusion
An exercise trampoline is a great way to keep yourself and your loved ones active at home. It is a great source of exercise and fun, however, it also comes with risks.
It is important to you seek out the right trampoline for your needs and ask the right questions. Hopefully, this article helped provide valuable information when you plan to purchase your own trampoline.
We’ve also done a review on the best gym foam mats, you might want to consider one if you need to protect the floor underneath your trampoline. Don’t be afraid to check out our full list of home gym essentials that we did a write up on as well.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on rebounding and exercise trampolines, let us know in the comments section below!
Sources:
https://www.wellbeingjournal.com/rebounding-good-for-the-lymph-system
https://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com/trampoline.html
Marko Rakic is a trail runner and fitness enthusiast from Sydney, Australia. He is the lead writer for The Ultimate Primate and believes the best way to live a happy life is through constantly challenging yourself.