- There are numerous jump ramps on the market and each sport has its own take on the jump ramp. For example, extreme sports like skateboarding and BMX riding utilize a wooden jump ramp with a lead up of various lengths. On the other hand, the sport of high jumping utilizes a jump ramp that acts more like a spring than a launch. Finally, the sports of skiing and extreme motorcycling utilize jump ramps that are longer, taller and sturdier than those used by skateboarders.
- The function of a jump ramp is to transform momentum into air height, which is the distance above the ramp that the athlete is able to achieve. This function is achieved either by pairing speed with an inclined launch or by pairing speed, force and spring action to achieve lift.
- The size of a jump ramp is going to depend on what type of ramp you are using. For example, a jump ramp used for training high jumpers will have dimensions of about 24 inches by 18 by 12. On the other hand, a skateboard jump ramp will have lead ups of between 6 and 10 feet and an incline with a terminus height of between 4 and 6 feet tall. Motorcycle jump ramps eclipse these dimensions. For show stopping motorcycle jumps, the constructed jump ramp can be several stories high and hundreds of feet long.
- The most common benefit of using a jump ramp is simply providing extra lift for a jump. This is a benefit that is utilized by all the sports that use jump ramps, however, this is not the only benefit that can be obtained from a jump ramp. They can also be used for training an athlete. High jumpers, for example, use jump ramps to practice foot position, body position and body movements to achieve higher jumps. Extreme winter athletes can also train on a ramp to help them prepare to do tricks on natural terrain. They use the jump ramp to practice things like jumps, aerial acrobats and landing skills.
- There are several warnings that you need to be aware of before you use a jump ramp. First of all they raise the danger level for falls and injuries. Next the construction of a jump ramp will impact how safe it is to use. Well constructed jump ramps will be properly braced and set up, and they will not have gaps or raised nails or screws on the surface of the ramp. Finally, since jump ramps attract kids, it is important to either take the ramp down at the end of the day or secure it so no one can use the ramp unsupervised.
