Trampolines might seem like a fun way to keep kids entertained and in shape when they are at home. But according to an updated policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) their risks outweigh their benefits.

“Pediatricians need to actively discourage recreational trampoline use,” said Dr. Michele LaBotz. “Families need to know that many injuries occur on the mat itself, and current data do not appear to demonstrate that netting or padding significantly decrease the risk of injury.”

In 2009, there were 98,000 trampoline-related injuries with 3,100 resulting in hospitalization. Seventy-five percent of these injuries occurred when there was only one person using the trampoline.

According to the AAP, trampolines should only be used in training for a specific sport, while under the supervision of a coach. And even then they are still suspicious of trampolines, suggesting that any facility that houses such equipment should be heavily regulated.

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