Mini Trampoline: Approach Run and Hurdle Step

A session focused on the part that goes wrong most on the mini trampoline: the approach run and the hurdle step. Each student measures their run, marks it with a cone and checks with a partner whether the takeoff lands in the center of the bed.

How to play

1. Without equipment, on tape marks: a 4-step run and hurdle step, a small hop off one foot that lands on two feet with the arms back (5 min).
2. Measure the run: from the edge of the mini trampoline, each student counts their steps backward and marks the start with their cone (4 min).
3. Takeoff on the mini trampoline and straight jump to the crash mat at medium speed, with one spotter on each side (8 min).
4. Partner feedback: did the takeoff land in the center of the bed? did the arms swing up at the moment of takeoff? (5 min).
5. Record the best run length in steps and meters on the worksheet for future sessions (3 min).

Rules

• Medium speed: the run is for positioning, not for jumping higher.
• Straight jumps only, no twists or flips.
• Only one jumper on the runway; the next waits by their cone until the spotter signals.
• If the takeoff lands on the edge of the bed, stop and adjust the mark before trying again.

Variations

Adaptations

• Ankle injury: practices the run and hurdle on the floor and serves as the observer for the center of the bed.
• Autism: always uses the same cone and station and gets the start signal with an agreed gesture.
• Hearing impairment: the spotter gives the start signal by raising an arm.

Learning goals

• Fit the approach run to each student's own stride.
• Perform an effective and safe hurdle step.
• Appreciate how precision matters for safety on equipment.

Equipment for a class of 25

• mini trampoline: 2
• crash mat: 2
• cones: 8
• colored tape: 2
• worksheets: 25

Teacher tip

Most landing problems come from an off-center takeoff. Mark the center of the bed with a piece of tape so observers can see it clearly.

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