Trampolining is not just about jumping up and down; there is a series of basic skills that are required to ensure that you master the acrobatic aspect of this activity.

These skills are important for those who use the trampolines in Kenya for recreation as well as those who would like to participate actively in competitive trampolining.

Before trying out any difficult stunts, it is important to ensure that all safety measures are in place in case of any eventualities.

The basics of bouncing

The most crucial part of the bouncing action is the initial contact and the final contact that you make with the trampoline. This will determine how well you can achieve consistent motion as well as how high you can jump.

It is important to begin with low measured bounces with the arms gently moving in a circular motion while airborne.  When you land on the depressed trampoline, the hands should be raised high and the toes pushed deeply into the trampoline. This will help provide the right thrust to lift you into the air. As you take of the arms should then return to your sides.

It is of utmost importance to know how to safely stop the activity. This is done by bending the knees the moment you land back on the trampoline. If you do not bend your knees you will simply rebound and get airborne once again. When doing this your torso should remain straight because bending forwards or backwards may cause you to lose balance and fall over.

Once you know how to stop you will not be scared to jump as high as possible.

The basics of twisting

During the first attempts, the twisting jump may seem rather difficult to execute but with a little practice it becomes easier to do.

The twist jump starts out like an ordinary jump but as just as you are about to go airborne, you should twist your arms and turn your shoulders in the specific direction that you want to twist.  This action works like a kind of coiling spring that eventually allows you to spin while  in the air.

The basics of seat landings

To execute a good seat landing, keep the body straight just like when executing an ordinary jump and then tilt your pelvic area slightly upwards with you arms stretched upwards as you get airborne. When you begin your descent bring your arms back down and place them behind you as you lift your feet forwards. You should finally land with your back straight, your arms facing down and the body in a general seating position.

The basics of back landing

Lie on the static trampoline with your arms and legs facing upright.  Get in motion by attempting to raise your hips off the trampoline repeatedly. This will lead to a rhythmic motion that will launch you further up every time you rebound.

Remember practice makes perfect and do not try difficult moves without first preparing and rehearsing adequately.