Trampoline parks leap into amusement scene

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Xtreme Trampoline’s facility in Carol Stream opened in November. | Sun-Times Media

Updated: July 17, 2011 10:02AM

Been to Disney this summer? Check. A water park? Check. A trampoline park?

Boing!

The nation’s ever-expanding amusement world is taking a new twist this summer as indoor trampoline parks approach critical mass, with about 50 operating in a dozen states and revenues approaching $100 million.

The parks— which charge $8 to $14 an hour — feature wall-to-wall trampolines, with trampolines even lining side walls.

“It wasn’t on our radar, but I have a feeling it will be soon,” says David Mandt, spokesman for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.

Sky High Sports has two planned for the Chicago area, in Naperville and Niles.

Co-owner Jerry Raymond quit his job as a computer consultant to open the company.

“I was looking to do something where my kids wouldn’t be embarrassed to come to work with Dad,” he says.

Xtreme Trampolines opened a facility in November in Carol Stream and owner Eric Beck is planning another one in Buffalo Grove.

“If it’s cold or rainy or snowing, we’re packed,” he says. “If it’s sunny outside, we’re empty.”

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, however, warns of possible injuries.

“We do not recommend recreational use of trampolines, as sad as that may be,” says Jennifer Weiss, an orthopedic surgeon at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Xtreme Trampolines argues that two out of every 1,000 jumpers will get some type of injury —the vast majority minor — and that the rate is far below other activities such as baseball, football and soccer.

Gannett News Service