One of the first important decisions about starting a Trampoline and Tumbling program will be who’s going to teach it.  One of the best ways to begin looking for an instructor is by looking in your own backyard.  If your club already has an existing gymnastics program, start advertising within your club for an instructor.  Someone from your own gym may already be experienced in Trampoline and Tumbling.  Your current preschool coach may be the perfect person, or look to your local university or college. Contact former gymnasts or team members who may still live in the area.

There are many educational materials available to help you learn more about coaching Trampoline and Tumbling.  USA Gymnastics provides an excellent course for the Level One Coach.  This program is offered to help educate the novice coach or update the experienced coach on all the proper progressions and safety guidelines.  Another important tool for teaching your new staff about Trampoline and Tumbling is the compulsory video, available through USA Gymnastics.  Each of the three events, trampoline, tumbling and double-mini, are on this video.  These videos are a great way to become familiar with the compulsory routines from Levels 1through 10.  Even if you don’t choose to have a competitive program, I recommend that you base your program on these compulsory routines.  They will guide you in a safe and effective format.  This video will provide a sound structure for your program on trampoline, tumbling and double-mini.  Other videos are available to help you with specific skills and combinations. 

If you have tried to find a qualified instructor with little success, try advertising in the local newspapers or library bulletin board for someone who may have physical education background or a former gymnastics coach.  Remember, Trampoline and Tumbling does not demand the many hours of training that artistic gymnastics does, so one of your existing instructors could teach a beginner class with very few hours added to their existing schedule.

EQUIPMENT

What do I really need to start a Trampoline and Tumbling program?

Power tumbling is performed on a 6’x88’ platform made of fiberglass rods and covered with 3” of carpeted foam.  However, beginning tumblers can use panel mats or the existing spring floor.  For a new program to get started most clubs would not have to purchase any new equipment for this event.  Sounds great, right?   A double-mini trampoline is approximately 11’x6’.  It is a two-level trampoline which the athlete approaches & jumps onto to perform a rebound skill, immediately followed by a dismounting skill.  The athlete lands on a landing mat to finish.  Double mini-trampolines can be expensive (approximately $1,500-$3,000) depending on if it is new or used.  I would suggest when you first get started, if you cannot afford to purchase a double-mini, improvise by using your tumble track.  To use the tumble track, mark off the 11’ area with chalk or tape.  Have your athlete practice running to the marked off areas, performing their pass and landing onto a mat or into a pit.  This really does work and if you want a start a program it will give you a chance to work on proper form and skill at the beginner level.

SAFETY GUIDELINES

 One of the most important parts of any sport or activity is safety!  If you are thinking of starting a trampoline program, a great place to start is by having all your instructors become safety certified by USA Gymnastics and becoming professionals members of USA Gymnastics.  The USA Gymnastics safety course will give your instructors a better understanding of safety guidelines and what to do to prevent an injury.  Going one step further, I suggest having all your Trampoline and Tumbling instructors become certified as a level 1 coach.  Only Professional Members who have taken the Level 1 course are allowed on the floor at competitions.  This program teaches specifically the safety rules and proper progressions for Trampoline and Tumbling, as well as a sound skill progressions format starting at the beginner level.  This helps to encourage safety during class and practices.  For more information on becoming safety certified or taking the level one coach’s course, visit the USA Gymnastics website at http//www.usa-gymnastics.org.

TRAMPOLINE SAFETY

      No one should ever use a trampoline unless the activity is under the direct supervision of a coach.  Coaches should inspect the trampoline before each practice to check for hazards or obstacles.  Trampolines are a serious piece of equipment and should never be used for horseplay, but only for serious practice.  Students must not attempt any skill until the proper progressions have been completed.  Proper preparation is the key to safety on the trampoline.  Proper attire should be worn when using a trampoline.  Avoid any clothing that could become stuck in the bed or get in the spotter's way.  Instructors should never allow an athlete to practice on the trampoline without proper foot covering.  Jewelry, including watches, earrings, and rings, should never be worn on the trampoline.  Any type of jewelry could endanger the athlete by becoming stuck or entangled in the bed. Never run under a trampoline.  One of the most important steps to preventing an injury on the trampoline is having a proper warm-up.  Warming up all muscles can help to prevent strains and sprains.