I’ve got to admit, I am a trampoline obsessed young adult. I don’t really understand what my obsession is with trampolines, though. All I know is that, even at this age, there is this inexplicable magnetic pull towards that black bouncy mesh that I can’t quite seem to break.
Not that I mind – trampolines are a great, low-impact workout which get the cardiovascular system going while helping to increase metabolic rate and all-over muscle toning. It just does seem kind of funny when I am invited to a friend’s house for a big lunch and I end up spending most of my time on their trampoline with the kids as opposed to sitting and talking with the adults.
As such, I got really excited when I started seeing pictures on Instagram about a new trampoline concept that has hit Dubai called Bounce. This Australian brand now in Al Qouz calls for everyone to come and join the “free-jumping revolution” and I am immediately curious to learn more.
Booking has to happen ahead of time, so some down time during Eid break seems like it could be a good time to go. I gather my siblings (I figured it’d be a fun group activity and I don’t want to look like a total loser jumping all alone) and we head over to Bounce not quite knowing what to expect from the experience, but anticipating awesomeness nonetheless.
As soon as we drive up to Bounce, I get the feeling like there is no way we will be disappointed. The place is buzzing with action and we have no issues parking and checking in right away. We receive a wristband to identify our timeslot (each booking slot is for 60 minutes on the trampolines) and funky bright colored socks with special grips on the bottoms to help us maintain balance and minimize static electricity.
We climb up to the rest/viewing area and are bombarded with sounds of laughter and yelling. Everywhere we look are trampolines outlined in bright colors and people jumping all over the place!
The floor is divided into areas – the first is a series of trampolines that lead to a basketball net. Along the side are trampoline ramps where people can practice flips or running up the side wall. There is also an area specially designated for dodge ball.
Then there is an area where there are long trampolines letting out into a big huge bean bag-like cushion called the Big Bag, perfect for catapulting yourself up and practicing some major flips and tricks before landing safely into the softness below.
The final area consists of more trampolines and wooden walls of differing heights lining the wall. This is a special area to practice wall jumping, which looks way easier than it actually is!
I can’t wait to get down there. As soon as I am on a trampoline, a huge smile is plastered on my face. Everywhere we look, people are doing flips and tricks and it’s impossible not to try and throw yourself into attempting some yourself.
All pretenses are put to the side and random strangers are encouraging you and giving you pointers. Some guys came in with a GoPro camera and were filming their attempts, which I have to say were quite impressive and inspiring.
The highlight, however, was when a gymnast walked up to the Big Bag area and absolutely killed it by jumping ridiculously high and performing a series of flips and tricks before landing into the Bag. Everyone was clapping and cheering him on and just absolutely amazed at his capabilities.
60 minutes later, I am drenched in sweat but still smiling from ear to ear. Not only did I get a great workout, but it was super fun bonding with my siblings and meeting new people over such a fun activity.
I’m even thinking about taking up some classes as Bounce is soon setting up with jumping harnesses, foam pits and landing mats for 1:1 sessions to teach aerial tricks! It’s such a great way to put your fears to the side and try something new without judgment and see what kind of wicked stunts you might be capable of!
I highly recommend this as a group activity for a weekend afternoon. Just make sure to wear proper clothing as you get really sweaty (gym attire is best) and girls, it’s better to have tighter fitting tops so they’re not flying all over the place!
General admission for a one hour session is 80 AED (needs advance booking online) and it includes the grip socks. They also have a concession stand upstairs for water, energy drinks and snacks.
Update: Since visiting Bounce for the first time, I went another two! On my third visit, I really messed up my knee and have since heard a lot of feedback about people getting injured. So please be careful when going and be a bit cautious, especially if you have any existing injuries, as you don’t want to aggravate them!
WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss Aya’s last fitness review on aquafitness in Dubai.
