GYMNASTICS - TRAMPOLINE

Summary of the event. What actually happens?

In Gymnastics Trampoline, you perform a gymnastics routine on a trampoline. Sounds pretty easy and simple, right? It’s not as easy as it sounds. You will do a series of flips, jumps, and other tricks to try and win with the highest score.

What does it feel like to participate?

Just imagine. You are standing on a trampoline the size of your classroom! You bend your knees and start bouncing. Have you ever done a flip on a trampoline before? If you have, just imagine you are doing your favorite flip, but only you’re going higher than you’ve ever gone before! You’re soaring in the air, and then you start flipping around and around and around. Then, you hit the trampoline with your feet again, then you start floating in the air again. Fun!

What kind of training is involved?

Training for Trampoline Gymnastics consists of a few steps. Before anything, you need to strengthen your flexibility. Several stretches and exercises help your muscles stretch out and make them more flexible, making flips and jumps much easier and pain-free. Other exercises that help with the tricks are also introduced to you.

What equipment do you need?

The equipment needed in gymnastics isn’t much. A spring trampoline will be needed, of course. The floor needs to be covered in mats. By rules, the mat has to be between 20cm and 50cm thick. You also need to wear suitable clothing for the event, such as a suit that looks like a leotard.

When and where is the event being held during the upcoming Olympics in Beijing?

Trampoline Gymnastics will be the 29th event that takes place at the Beijing Olympics. It will be held from August 9-24, 2008. This event will take place in the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China.