Quick Guide: Trampolining

ByReuters

Published 24/07/2004 at 22:43 GMT

Trampoline is the most modern form of gymnastics. While the first use of a trampoline dates back to 1800, the event took another 200 years to gain Olympic recognition.

OLYMPIC GAMES olympic rings Olmypische Ringe

Image credit: Imago

Overview

Trampoline became an official Olympic discipline of gymnastics on January 1, 1999 and made its debut at the 2000 Sydney Games. The competition includes men's and women's individual categories. The trampoline is made up of a metal frame supporting a spring bed. It measures 5.05m by 2.91m and is a little over 1m high. The bed is made from nylon or string and is around six millimeters thick. The safety platform, a large, thick mat, is placed at either end of the trampoline. Trampolinists compete in either socks or gym shoes.

Structure

Beijing 2008

Golden double for China

19/08/2008 at 04:19

Only individual medals are available for men and women. A new code of points will be used in Beijing. The old 10.0 system was abolished following several judging controversies at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Now an accumulative points system, modelled on the format introduced in figure skating, is used with gymnasts being rewarded for more daring routines.

Qualification

Total of 32 athletes - 16 men, 16 women

Venue

National Indoor Stadium

Beijing 2008