A story in the NY Times has gone viral in the Trampoline world today. Can you imagine another acrobatic sport using a trampoline? We’ve got Individual Trampoline, Synchronized Trampoline, Double Mini-tramp and even Single Mini-tramp is a sport in Europe. But, put a very high wall next to a trampoline and stand on top of the wall. A trampolinist will do the obvious: take a dive! Now, you’ve got a new thrill. It’s something we’ve all done before, given the opportunity. It is also a popular act in Cirque du Soleil and Vegas. It’s being called “Wall Trampoline.” A professional trampolinist from Canada, Julien Roberge, wants to make Wall Trampoline an Extreme Sport.
The marketing side of me says, “YAY! I support the effort!” It could possibly bring more attention to the sport of trampoline, increasing visibility and interest. You can never have too much attention. Then, there’s the artist in me. She says, “Do you really want to place rules and parameters on such freedom of movement?” One thing I remember and loved about trampolining off a wall was the improvisational nature, the freedom to flow in space and time. I never knew my next feat until I was back on the perch, then my mind and body would make the next choice based on feel or inclination. It was spiritual in nature to me.
My reaction to the article was in my gut. I suddenly understood how free runners feel about parkour competitions. Many are opposed because they see freerunning as … well, free. Many, like Daniel Illabaca, often considered the world’s best, refuse to compete in the big international event sponsored by Red Bull called “Art of Motion.” He is making a statement. To him, freerunning gives him a sense of peace.
So, we’ll all have different points of view. I’m for it and I’m against it. So, either way, I hope Julien is successful! Competing is a choice.
For the full story, click:
Defying Gravity with Creativity, New York Times article
Thanks to George Hery for providing the video below. It’s a sample of Wall Trampoline from the Viva Elvis Show rehearsal in Las Vegas.
Thanks for the comment, GymnasticsCoaching.com. It took decades for Trampoline to become an Olympic Sport. I wonder how much work it takes to become an Extreme Sport.