Rectangle vs round trampoline: Which shape is more ideal?

Jumping on a trampoline isn’t just an exhilarating way to bring out the child in each of us—it's also a powerhouse activity packed with health benefits. It strengthens muscles across your body and improves your cardiovascular health.

However, choosing the perfect trampoline for your backyard isn't as straightforward as it might seem. Pitting rectangle vs round trampoline requires touching on crucial aspects like safety, performance, and usage. With each shape offering distinct advantages, understanding the differences becomes essential.

Whether you're a budding gymnast needing the right training equipment or a family looking for a source of leisure and exercise, this guide is designed to help you weigh the pros and cons. We're here to break down the technicalities and steer you towards the trampoline that best suits your needs.

What is a rectangle trampoline?

You might've seen a rectangular trampoline in a gymnastics gym or a professional athlete's training area, and there's a good reason for that. Unlike its round counterparts or the similar square trampoline, a rectangle trampoline is designed to give jumpers a consistent bounce everywhere on its surface.

This feature is super important for athletes and aspiring gymnasts because it means they can practise their flips and tricks with confidence. They know they'll get the same lift whether they're in the centre or near the edge.

That consistent bounce is caused by its rectangular frame and the way the springs are arranged. They work together to create a uniform tension across the mat, which can really take your trampoline skills to the next level.

And while we're talking about taking things to the next level, it's worth mentioning that a rectangle trampoline tends to offer more space for those bounces and manoeuvres. Whether you're performing a complicated gymnastic routine or just want the feel of flying, this shape is your go-to for ultimate performance.

What is a round trampoline?

The round trampoline is the type that many of us grew up with. Unlike the rectangular ones designed for athletes, round trampolines are all about recreation. They're crafted to direct the jumper back to the centre, which makes them a safer option for the less experienced.

This design feature also reduces the chances of bouncing off the edge and makes it easier for everyone, especially kids, to enjoy their jump time without as much risk. Plus, the circular shape evenly distributes the force when jumping, which lessens the wear and tear on the springs and mat over time.

If you're looking for something that'll fit nicely in your backyard and bring endless fun to family gatherings, a round trampoline might just be your perfect match.

Round vs rectangle trampoline: What's the better shape for bouncing?

When you're deciding on the perfect trampoline for your house or outdoor space, you'd obviously want to make sure that the shape will also fit your family's needs and bouncing goals. That's why we're going to break down the key differences between these two and look at safety, performance, and space considerations.

In terms of bouncing experience

When it comes to bouncy trampolines, rectangular ones have the edge of providing a more powerful lift. That's because they offer a surface that responds with more force when you jump. This makes them the go-to choice for anyone looking to perform tricks or enhance their gymnastic skills.

On the other hand, round trampolines are known for their softer bounce. They're built to direct jumpers back to the centre, reducing the likelihood of rough landings or accidental exits. This feature makes them ideal for families, especially those with younger kids just looking to have a good time. 

In terms of space utilisation

If you're considering bigger projects like deck renovation or enhancing your outdoors' overall aesthetics, you'll find that trampoline size comparison is a crucial starting point before making a purchase decision. After all, you wouldn't want to invest in something that just wouldn't fit in your house.

For instance, a large rectangle trampoline typically requires a more dedicated area due to its shape and size. You’ll find that it doesn't tuck away as easily into a corner of the yard compared to its round counterparts. However, it's a fantastic choice if you’ve got the room and are aiming for that professional gymnastic vibe at home.

On the flip side, a small rectangle trampoline offers a bit more flexibility if you're tight on space. It still provides that enhanced bouncing experience but in a more compact form. This makes it a smart pick for smaller gardens or spaces.

Don't forget about round trampolines, though. They're incredibly accommodating when it comes to fitting into various yard shapes and sizes. Thanks to their ability to nestle into corners, they can be added to almost any landscape. 

In terms of safety

As mentioned above, rectangular trampolines cater better to gymnastic jumps, giving a more consistent bounce across the surface. However, they can be a bit more dangerous for inexperienced jumpers. A rectangle trampoline with a net enclosure is the safest option for this style.

Round ones, on the other hand, are generally seen as safer for casual use, making them ideal trampolines for kids. Since they naturally take the jumper to the centre, they reduce the risk of bouncing off to the sides. Plus, the circular design can limit high-flying antics and minimise accidents.

If you're in the market for something that aligns with tighter safety protocols, consider oval or octagonal trampolines. These shapes combine the broader space of rectangle trampolines with the centre-focused bounce of round models. It's a nice middle ground, offering the space for those flips and somersaults while keeping things a bit more controlled. 

In terms of versatility

When it comes to flexibility, rectangle trampolines take the cake. They're perfect for gymnastics enthusiasts who need room for flips and somersaults. They're also appropriate for larger groups or families, granted that there's a net enclosure.

Round trampolines aren't far behind, either. They're ideal for families looking for a fun and safe way to burn some energy. Plus, they fit more easily into smaller spaces, making them a go-to for many homeowners.

But how much weight can a trampoline hold? The weight limit dictates who can use the trampoline, so it's an important factor to consider. In general, most trampolines can hold anywhere from 200-300 pounds, with some models able to accommodate up to 400 pounds. 

In terms of the assembly process

When it's time to put it all together, rectangle trampolines can be a bit of a puzzle. They often have more parts and require a bit more elbow grease to set up. You'll need to allocate a few more minutes, or even hours, to piecing them together compared to their round counterparts.

Round trampolines are usually simpler to assemble. Their design is straightforward, making the process less complicated. You're looking at a quicker setup time so kids can start jumping their hearts out sooner rather than later.

It's also worth noting that regardless of shape, having professional help can make the assembly process much smoother. Experts know what they’re doing, so hiring them can cut down on the time and frustration often associated with assembly. 

In terms of cost

Rectangle trampolines tend to be pricier, with those designed for kids ranging from £192 to £400 and adult sizes (12 feet and more) hitting the wallet at £600 to £1,900. In contrast, round trampolines are more budget-friendly, with kids' versions starting as low as £80 to £500 and adult options capping off at £200 to £800.

This pricing trend reflects, in part, the complexity and material costs associated with the different shapes. Rectangle trampolines often require more structure and support, hence the higher price tag. Round trampolines, meanwhile, benefit from a simpler design that not only makes them cheaper to buy but also easier on the pocket in the long run.

Ultimately, when deciding between the two, it's essential to weigh the initial investment against what you're hoping to get out of the trampoline. If you're after something that offers more competitive or professional training benefits, then the rectangle might be worth the extra cash. However, for those looking for recreational use without breaking the bank, round trampolines are a go-to choice that won't disappoint. 

Simplify and speed up your trampoline assembly with Airtasker

Buying the right shape and size of a trampoline is just the beginning. The real challenge often lies in assembling the trampoline. Whether it's a rectangle, round, or spring-free trampoline, putting it together can be time-consuming and sometimes downright complex.

That's where professional assembly experts come in to make your life a whole lot easier. By posting your task on the Airtasker platform, you can find people who'll turn what could have been a day-long project into a hassle-free experience.

And if the time comes when you need to say goodbye to your old trampoline, pros skilled in trampoline removals have got you covered, too. Don't spend your weekend puzzling over instructions — post a task today and connect with knowledgeable and friendly Taskers ready to jump-start your trampoline fun!