One of the most common devices that kids use to have fun is the trampoline. Essentially, this is a device that consists of a durable and stiff fabric, usually called a bounce mat, which is stretched over a metal frame. The fabric is held by coiled springs which are the primary factors of the trampoline’s bounce. At present, the trampoline is not simply a children’s toy but is also utilized for fitness and competition.

It’s hard to believe but trampolines are often used as training apparatuses for pilots and astronauts. During the second World War, the United States Navy Flight School utilized trampolines to let pilots and navigators practice spatial orientation and experience its effects before flying an actual airplane. In addition, after the war, the Americans and Soviets utilized trampolines to help train their astronauts about the various body positions in space flight.

But how did these excellent things start out? Historical evidence tell us that the idea of bouncing people up in the air may have its beginnings from the Inuit. Hundreds of years ago, as a recreational or practical activity, they would toss each other in air using a sheet of walrus skin akin to the life nets used by today’s firemen to safely catch people escaping from burning buildings. Other proofs also points out that the device’s initial ideas may have come from Europe where folks would use a very tight blanket to toss people in the air.

While the above ideas may not be the precursors to the trampolines we know today, it was evidenced in the early years of the 20th century that circus performers utilized a bouncy bed during their acts to entertain their audiences. The bed was actually a simple trampoline, a frame covered with bedclothes.

It was only in 1936 when the modern-day trampoline was conceptualized by University of Iowa gymnasts George Nissen and Larry Griswold. They noticed in circuses that trapeze artists utilized a stretched net to catch their fall. The two then came up with an innovative They stretched a piece of canvas, sewed grommets along each side, then affixed the canvas to an angle iron frame with coiled springs. The item was first utilized a device to train tumblers, however, over time, it became popular in its own right. The trampoline was born.