Apr
Different Types of Trampolines and What They’re Best Used For
Trampolines have long been a source of joy, exercise, and skill development for children and adults alike. From back garden bounce sessions to inclusive playground experiences, trampolines come in many shapes and sizes—each designed with a specific use in mind. But with so many variations on the market, it can be difficult to know which type of trampoline is best suited to your space and your users.
There are many types of trampolines—circular for social play, rectangular for directional movement, and inclusive models for wheelchair users or group use. The right trampoline depends on your space, users, and goals.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of trampolines available, including those traditionally found in private use and the robust, inclusive trampolines offered by Caloo. Whether you’re planning an inclusive playground, a school outdoor space, or a public park, you’ll find exactly what you need to create a safe, fun and accessible environment for all.
Why Trampoline Variety Matters
Choosing the right trampoline isn’t just about size—it’s about safety, accessibility, age suitability, social interaction and the available space. Whether it’s encouraging active outdoor play, enhancing sensory development, or ensuring children of all abilities can play together, the right trampoline can transform an outdoor area into a more engaging and inclusive space.
Traditional Trampolines: Personal vs Public Use
Before diving into Caloo’s inclusive trampoline range, it’s worth touching on the types of trampolines often used in personal or commercial fitness settings. These include:
1. Round Trampolines
These are most commonly found in private gardens. Their central bounce design encourages users to remain in the middle, making them a safer option for home use. However, they are generally unsuitable for public playgrounds or commercial environments due to safety regulations and limited durability.
2. Rectangular Trampolines
Favoured by gymnasts and athletes, rectangular trampolines offer a more controlled, consistent bounce. These are great for performance training but not typically used in public outdoor spaces due to the higher bounce and injury risk if unsupervised.
3. Mini Trampolines (Rebounders)
Used indoors for low-impact cardio workouts, these are common in gyms and homes. They’re not built for multiple users or heavy-duty public use. While these trampolines have their place, they’re generally not suited for schools, parks, or inclusive public spaces—where safety, accessibility, and group interaction are key.
Inclusive Trampolines by Caloo: Built for Every Body
Caloo’s extensive range of inclusive trampolines is designed with safety, durability, and accessibility at its core. Fully compliant with EN1176 playground safety standards, each trampoline is engineered for long-term outdoor use across a wide range of environments, including schools, local authority parks, leisure facilities, and special education settings.
As a trusted provider of playground and fitness equipment, Caloo holds a number of key industry accreditations that demonstrate their commitment to quality, compliance and excellence. These include:
• Constructionline Gold – ensuring quality assurance and supplier credibility
• CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) – verifying health and safety compliance
• Acclaim Accreditation – evidencing health and safety competence
• ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 Certification – for quality management and environmental responsibility
• RoSPA Membership – supporting the highest standards of accident prevention in playgrounds
With these accreditations, clients can trust that Caloo’s trampoline installations meet rigorous professional and safety standards.
Curved Inclusive Trampoline
With a unique arc-like design, the curved trampoline adds a creative visual and interactive feature to any playground. It encourages imaginative play and fluid movement, perfect for sensory gardens or themed play areas.
Best for: Sensory play spaces, visually stimulating environments, inclusive playgrounds.
Circular Inclusive Trampoline
A popular shape that allows children to bounce in all directions, promoting spatial awareness and group interaction. Circular trampolines are especially beneficial in early years and primary school settings where collaborative play is key.
Best for: Group play, school playgrounds, open access parks.
Square and Extended Square Inclusive Trampolines
These offer versatility in terms of layout and use. The extended version allows more users to engage simultaneously while still supporting solo activity. Their symmetry makes them ideal for modular playground design.
Best for: Public parks, urban play areas, schools with flexible space.
Rectangle Inclusive Trampoline
Designed for directional play, this trampoline guides movement from one end to the other, ideal for inclusive fitness trails or structured playground layouts. The elongated shape also allows better integration into narrow or linear spaces.
Best for: Sports trails, walkways, rehabilitation play zones.
4 Capacity Inclusive Circle Trampoline
This trampoline is built for group interaction, with enough room for up to four users at once. Its circular layout encourages collaborative play, making it a brilliant choice for playgrounds that prioritise social development and inclusive access.
Best for: Group activity areas, community playgrounds, SEN schools.
Colourful 4 Capacity Inclusive Square Trampoline
Adding a vibrant splash of colour, this trampoline isn’t just fun to use—it’s also stimulating for children with sensory processing needs. Its spacious square shape makes it ideal for group bouncing, while the bright design invites engagement.
Best for: Sensory playgrounds, inclusive school zones, early years centres.
Figure 8 Inclusive Trampoline
Designed to resemble the number eight, this trampoline adds an element of imaginative play. It offers two distinct bounce zones, perfect for games, roleplay, or parallel play—especially helpful for children with autism or additional needs.
Best for: Inclusive playgrounds, imaginative outdoor spaces, autism-friendly areas.
S-Shaped Inclusive Trampoline
With its twisting layout, the S-shaped trampoline brings something truly unique to any outdoor space. It supports multiple users at once, while also encouraging movement across zones, which is great for developing motor skills and spatial awareness.
Best for: High-capacity play areas, creative playground layouts, dynamic flow parks.
Wheelchair Trampoline
This wheelchair trampoline is one of Caloo’s standout inclusive designs, being built for wheelchair users to roll on and enjoy the bounce. It features a flat, accessible surface, promoting equal play opportunities for children of all mobility levels.
Best for: SEN schools, fully accessible playgrounds, inclusive public parks.
Trampolines by Size: What Fits Your Space Best?
Small (1x1m)
Perfect for tighter spaces, this compact design is excellent for individual users or toddler areas.
Best for: Nursery outdoor spaces, compact school gardens.
Medium (1.25x1m)
A slight step up in size, giving children a bit more room to bounce while still being manageable for small installations.
Best for: Early years outdoor areas, sensory zones, community play trails.
Large (1.5×1.5m)
Offers more freedom of movement and is a solid choice for most playground settings with moderate traffic.
Best for: School playgrounds, park installations, mixed-age play areas.
Extra Large (2.5×1.5m)
With its extended surface area, this trampoline supports more active movement and multiple users.
Best for: High-traffic recreational parks, inclusive fitness zones.
Super (2x2m)
This jumbo-sized trampoline provides plenty of space for energetic play, ideal for settings that expect frequent and high use.
Best for: Destination play areas, town council parks, leisure centres.
How to Choose the Right Trampoline for Your Project
• Who will be using it? (Toddlers, teens, wheelchair users, multiple children at once?)
• How much space is available? (Compact corner vs large-scale playground?)
• What’s the goal? (Sensory play, group activity, inclusive access, physical therapy?)
• How many users at one time?
• Are you working towards an inclusive environment? (Hint: You should be.)
Caloo trampolines tick all these boxes—built for durability, compliance, and inclusive outdoor fun. Each model is designed for permanent outdoor installation, low maintenance, and long-term safety.
The Benefits of Installing Inclusive Trampolines
• Boosts physical development: Coordination, balance, and strength
• Encourages sensory engagement: Sound, motion, and spatial awareness
• Supports social play: Children learn turn-taking, cooperation, and communication
• Inclusive by design: Children of all abilities can join in the fun
• Safe and reliable: Caloo trampolines meet EN1176 standards and are built to last
Why Caloo?
Caloo is a trusted leader in the world of inclusive play equipment. With a nationwide installation team and years of experience creating outdoor spaces that promote health, wellbeing, and inclusion, Caloo understands how to match the right trampoline to your space.
• Full range of inclusive trampolines
• Built for public use and long-lasting performance
• Ideal for schools, councils, leisure centres and SEN facilities
• Design, delivery, and installation included
• Expert guidance to help bring your playground to life
Conclusion: Bouncing Towards a More Inclusive Future
Trampolines aren’t just for bouncing—they’re for building confidence, promoting inclusion, encouraging exercise, and creating joy. By understanding the different types of trampolines and what they’re best used for, you can make informed decisions that shape healthier, more inclusive communities.
Whether you’re looking for a wheelchair-accessible trampoline, a group-friendly figure-8 design, or a colourful square model for sensory engagement, Caloo has an option that fits your needs. Ready to transform your outdoor space? Explore Caloo’s full range of trampolines today or get in touch with our expert team for tailored advice.
