Circuses have used a number of devices to show off aerial and floor somersault activity. Modern trampolining has only emerged in the last 49-50 years from the prototype apparatus built by George Nissen, USA, in his garage in 1936. The Air Force, and later the Space Agencies quickly employed trampolines with thier pilots and astronauts. The trampoline also found Medical uses in helping the handicapped. For recreational trampolining has an immediate appeal, especially for the young people.
Every era produces at least one step forward in the sophistication of a trampoline machine used.
The most modern ones are capable of projecting an athlete to such a height that the top stars can touch 10m-high ceilings and perform repetition triple somersaults with ease. Which spread to Europe in the 1950s and display teams took it to all continents in the late 1950s and early 1960s, which is when many national federations were formed. Currently there are 42 member federations. Activity has developed and grown continuously year after year. Pan Pacific Championships, started in 1981, occurring the alternative years.