What is that Trampoline/Vault thing? Double-Mini Explained

Many casual gymnastics fans are not aware that the Olympic gymnastics events aired during prime-time hours showcase only one aspect of the sport. These events are collectively known as artistic gymnastics, for the reason that form is an essential component. However, the sport also includes rhythmic gymnastics and a third group called Trampoline and Tumbling.

What Is Trampoline and Tumbling?

Tumbling and Trampoline, also called T&T, is pretty much what its name implies. There are three events within this grouping and they all involve flying through the air and tumbling. In addition to the trampoline, this sport also utilizes long and narrow floor areas for tumbling runs as well as an apparatus called the double-mini trampoline. This looks something like a slide for small children; built low to the ground, it features a flat platform and a sloping platform, both of which are trampolines.

Double-mini vs. Vault

The first time you watch a gymnast performing on a double-mini, you’ll probably notice that the routine is something like a vault in artistic gymnastics. The athlete begins by running toward the apparatus. He then jumps onto the sloping trampoline, instead of a vault’s spring board, and flies up, landing on the flat trampoline. This catapults him into the air again and then he lands on a mat. During both flights he performs moves involving somersaults and twists and the landing must be solidly performed on both feet without a loss of balance. In a competition, each athlete makes two runs and the scores are added together.

Double-mini Candidates

Not all gymnasts, especially young ones, are thrilled with the slow pace of routines in artistic gymnastics. Apparatus such as the balance beam, parallel bars, and even floor exercise may be too exacting for kids who love speed and dynamic action. As an alternative, the double-mini offers both speed and action, plus the thrill of flying. What’s not to like here? Admittedly, as a parent you may find it difficult to watch at first, but the huge grin on your child’s face says it all.


Of course, double-mini lessons offer all the same benefits to your child’s development as other forms of gymnastics classes. She’ll learn the social skills of waiting for her turn, the mental skills of problem solving that will give her a boost in school, and the love of physical activity that will help keep her healthy throughout her life.

Giving Experiences Over Things

Can your child remember what gifts he received during the holidays last year? We would bet that in most cases the answer is no. Some of them were broken before the end of January and others were deemed boring after a week or two. Clothes have been outgrown or outmoded by now. We would also bet that you, as the gift-giver, may feel some frustration at the casual attitude your kids have towards the gifts you worked hard to afford.

There’s a trend these days to give experiences, rather than things, as gifts. People tend to remember and feel more appreciative about things they do rather than things they own. At the high end of the scale, gift experiences include safaris in Kenya and expeditions to Antarctica, but there are plenty of experiences worthy of gift status that don’t require a passport or larger-than-average bank account. You and your child can choose from a wide variety of experiences right here in Greensboro that are both beneficial and memorable.  

Tumblebees Gift Certificates

We like this idea of gift experiences and encourage it by making our facilities available through Tumblebees gift certificates, available through our on-site boutique. How about an afternoon at the Ultimate Climbing Gym? This could be the start of a life-long passion for challenging outdoor activities. Has your child expressed interest in gymnastics or diving, but hasn’t yet agreed to try a class? A gift certificate could be just the push she needs to get started in an activity where she will gain benefits that will last a lifetime.

Leotards and Glitter

Every sport has its own assorted gear that goes along with it. That’s why we also honor Tumblebees gift certificates at our boutique. Your daughter can choose the perfect leotard from our assortment. Let her pick one in a color you hate. It’s the experience that counts here, right? Or maybe some new hair accessories will boost her confidence for the next class or competition.


When you give your child or grandchild a gift certificate that helps her pursue her interests, perhaps the best gift she receives is the knowledge that you support her. This is a gift that is priceless.