People have become increasingly interested in an in-ground trampoline for safety and aesthetic reasons. Any trampoline can be installed in-ground, but there are a few things to consider before installation.
Spacing: When digging a space for your in-ground trampoline, you must give more space than just the size of the trampoline. Trampolines require significant airflow in order to function properly. Without extra space under the trampoline, the bounce will feel “dead,” similar to a water trampoline. We recommend nine inches to one foot of lateral space under the trampoline or dig the space so your trampoline is one foot above the ground.
Ground Composition: Before investing the time, money, and effort into creating an in-ground trampoline set up, consider your backyard soil composition. For example, the dirt under the surface of many backyards is actually largely made up of rocks and other obstructions that could make digging a challenge and expensive.
Safety Enclosure: Many people assume that since their trampoline is at ground level they do not need a safety net enclosure. Wrong! Aggressive jumpers can jump close to six feet into the air. Jumping at this height can still lead to a painful fall if the jumper were to miss the mat. Therefore, a safety net enclosure is always a necessity whether you have an in-ground or above ground trampoline.
Drainage: Depending on the composition of your soil and the climate you live in, drainage might be an issue for an in-ground trampoline. If your soil has high clay content, you might need to put cement blocks under your trampoline. For wetter climates, an electric water pump might be necessary.