[debok]

Huh, interesting that this is the hill I have to die on. If I google "are trampolines death traps" the results seem to be about 50/50 yes/no.

Anyway, here are the benefits:

1) More freedom, as they can get on the trampoline from any side instead of just the entrance. This Makes for more interesting games on/around the trampoline.

2) Easier for a parent to get to them when necessary.

3) I also jump on the trampoline.

4) Without the net, there is more to the trampoline than just a place to jump (ties in with point 1). E.g. We had our family dinner on the trampoline more than once.

5) The increased risk makes it more fun. Kids have and enjoy adrenaline too.

To answer the drawbacks (increased risk):

1) I also got hurt falling from a trampoline once as a teen, that was because I behaved the way a teen boy would.

2) The kids know where the dangerous parts of the trampoline is (i.e. near the sides).

[swader999]

We went no enclosure, built into the ground with an upgraded mat for better bounce. Kids loved it.

[voisin]

Built into the ground sounds interesting. Did you just dig a big pit or is this a special trampoline designed for this?

[opwieurposiu]

A big pit works fine if you remove the legs from a standard trampoline. The downside is that you do not feel like you are bouncing as high, because you don't get to start with the extra 4 feet in elevation.

[bigfudge]

We just dug a pit. it needs to be deeper than you think though (or well drained) or you get wet feet in the winter!

[swader999]

It was a trampoline designed for this type of install. The frame bolted onto a retaining wall type rectangle I built.