Trampolines have come a long way since the first modern ones were built by a couple of University of Iowa gymnasts in 1936. Initially developed as a fun recreational activity, trampolines soon found a place in the training regimens of the US Navy Flight School and NASA to help pilots and astronauts master spatial orientation. With the competitive introduction of the sport in 1964, the University of Louisiana's Jeff Hennessey became the first coach of the US Trampoline Team and the first world competition was held in London. Today, trampolines are used for both recreational and competitive purposes. They offer an incredibly fun way to improve physical fitness, develop coordination, and refine motor skills. Not only do they provide hours of entertainment, but they’re also a great way to build strength, agility, and balance. And with the introduction of modern safety features, trampolines are now a safer option than ever before.