Kids as well as adults around the world enjoy the joys of a trampoline. This gravity-defying instrument consists of a taught piece of fabric stretched over a metallic frame, usually made of stainless steel. The fabric is connected to the frame using coiled springs. This acts as a bouncing medium and is used to propel the user several meters into the air.

Although trampolines are highly evolved with a sturdy frame and several safety features, it is interesting to note the actual origin of the device.

There are several theories about the origin of the trampoline. The first one suggests that the trampoline was invented by the Eskimos. These nomadic people used walrus skin as a springboard to toss each other in the air. The other story suggests that the English were the pioneer of the trampoline industry. They used sturdy blankets to toss people in the air.

Another theory suggests that the trampoline was developed by a trapeze artist called Du Trampolin. He experimented with the trapeze safety net and eventually made it into the compact trampoline we know today. The authenticity of these theories cannot be rightly determined, but there is no denying that by the early 20th century, "bouncing beds" were used by several stage acts to amuse audiences.

The modern trampoline can be officially credited to George Nissen and Larry Griswold. Nissen was a gymnast and diver while Griswold was a tumbler on the gymnastic team, both at the University of Iowa. They experimented by stretching a piece of canvas over an iron frame by means of coiled springs. The canvas had grommets inserted along each side. Thus, the modern day trampoline was developed in 1934. The word trampoline was derived from the Spanish word "trampolín", which means diving board.

Trampolines were later used in World War II by the US Navy to train pilots and navigators. They were also used to train US and Soviet astronauts during the space flight programs. The International Trampoline Federation was formed in 1964.