Jump into Trampolining


By Rosie Sullivan

Teachers are always nagging us to take part in clubs and sometimes that seems like such an impossible task! However, where we live there is a huge variety of different clubs that you can take part in from dance to football, swimming to rugby. In this article I am going to talk about my favourite sport - Trampolining - which is slightly different from the ordinary!


I must admit when I talk about trampolining I am quite biased (from my love of the sport) but I have to encourage everyone to have a go at some point in their life. While trampoline parks across the county offer a chance for everyone to get involved, Funabounds Trampoline Centre in Uckfield is home to competitors from county to international level. Doing trampolining as a sport is very rewarding. Not only do you see such huge development in your ability but also in your communication skills. Working with coaches and other trampolinists to create routines and play games while you learn is the perfect combination for enjoyable exercise.


The most amazing thing about Funabounds Trampoline Centre is the variety of gymnastics based activities that you can take part in. You aren’t just limited to trampolining. There are parkour classes for the more adventurous among us, recreational trampoline and gymnastics groups for those starting out, advanced trampoline and gymnastics classes for more advanced gymnasts who show potential and Jump Fit classes or adult trampoline/gymnastics for anyone over 16 who wants to stay active but doesn’t have the time to do too much.


Anyone who has previous gymnastics experience (or anyone who demonstrates a high level) is able to join the competitive squads within the club. There are three different disciplines of gymnastics which Sky High at Funabounds specialise in. They are:

  1. Trampolining: Here are some videos of regional and national performers within the club: https://youtu.be/Y-nZGaGwuAk , https://youtu.be/xgwvdiQ4d6I , https://youtu.be/55xtdxnZGL8 , https://youtu.be/mT0UEIOk3_c

2. Double Mini Trampoline (DMT): The DMT is like two mini trampolines that have been joined in the middle. The first section of the apparatus is set at a slight angle and called the mount. From the mount, skills are performed onto the second section of the apparatus. This second section is called the spotter and is where skills can be performed back onto the trampoline or as a dismount onto the landing mat. Have a look at the video below which is one of our clubs national performers: https://youtu.be/UZxLuJ-oq6s

3. Tumbling: Tumbling is a truly breath-taking type of gymnastics. It’s all about somersaults, flips and twists – and linking them together, one right after the other. If you love doing somersaults and cartwheels, you’ll find tumbling easy to get into, whatever age you are. You’ll start by learning how it feels to perform simple tricks on a sprung runway. Check out this video: https://youtu.be/K1r5DM0NUPE

If you want to get into the world of gymnastics check out our website: https://funabounds.co.uk/