Not only is this popular children's toy in the backyard of tons of homes in Iowa but it's also used by gymnasts around the world. It can be used by tons of other extreme sports athletes as a balancing tool, and it was once used as a life-saving device by firefighters.

There are now sports dedicated to those who perform tricks using these, there are parks covered with these that can make for a great place to have a birthday party, and when you're in 4th grade, you have the 'cool' house if your family has one.

We're of course talking about...trampolines. Did you know this incredibly popular children's toy was invented in Iowa?

George Nissan and Larry Griswold

Two competitors at the University of Iowa were the creators of the modern-day trampoline, according to Trampoline and Tumbling Express. George Nissan competed in gymnastics and diving and Larry Griswold was a tumbler on the gymnastics team. The device was created by these two as a way to help them both train in their respective sports.

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In 1934, the two men stretched out pieces of canvas using coils and an iron frame. In 1936, they created and built the first trampoline in a garage. This "training tool" became commercially popular and soon after their creation, they began the Griswold-Nissan Trampoline and Tumbling Company. In 1942, they started producing trampolines in Cedar Rapids for the masses.

Trampolines have spread in popularity throughout the world and are used in various competitions on every single continent, according to Trampoline and Tumbling Express. Trampoline Parks, such as Sky Zone have increased in popularity, trampolines are used in X Games events, Olympic events in gymnastics use trampolines, and there are various events held around the world to find the world's best trampoline jumpers.

Not only are trampolines used in various competitions, they are incredible resources for physical fitness. These "toys" are used by fitness instructors around the world as a fun way to build cardiovascular health, strength, and strength training.

If you have a trampoline in your backyard or your friend has a trampoline, you can thank two University of Iowa students for the countless hours of fun you've had jumping in your backyard.