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The AirTrack (or inflatable gymnastics track) has established itself in a few years as the essential accessory for gymnasts, cheerleaders, traceurs, and families who want to train at home. This long, soft, and bouncy air-inflated track absorbs shocks and transforms a simple garden or living room into a real training facility. Whether you are new to tumbling or preparing complex somersaults, the AirTrack offers a safe landing that radically changes progression.
But behind this seemingly simple product lie many subtleties: thickness, length, inflation pressure, material, seam type, fastening accessories... Choosing the right model is not obvious, and a bad purchase can quickly spoil the experience. This ultra-comprehensive guide accompanies you step by step, from definition to informed choice, including safety, exercises, maintenance, and lifespan.
We have condensed here the experience of Maison Gonflable and the best practices from the world of gymnastics to help you buy, install, and maintain your inflatable track like a professional. Take a few minutes: by the end, you will know exactly which inflatable AirTrack matches your level, space, and budget.
An AirTrack is an inflatable training track designed for gymnastics and acrobatic sports. Made from technical fabric (usually double-layer PVC connected by thousands of polyester threads called Drop-Stitch), it inflates with air to form a flat, firm yet elastic surface. This Drop-Stitch construction is the same as that used for inflatable paddleboards: it allows for a rigid board capable of withstanding high pressure while remaining flexible upon landing.
Specifically, the AirTrack is positioned between a classic floor mat and a trampoline. It does not propel the user as high as a trampoline, but it returns enough energy to facilitate rotations, jumps, and tumbling sequences. Most importantly, it forgives imperfect landings, making it a valuable teaching tool for learning new moves without fear of injury.
Lightweight once deflated, the AirTrack can be stored in a bag and easily transported. It can be set up indoors or outdoors, inflated in minutes with an electric blower, and stored just as quickly. This versatility explains its massive adoption in gymnastics clubs, circus schools, cheerleading gyms, as well as by individuals who want serious equipment at home.
The word "AirTrack" actually refers to an entire family of inflatable Drop-Stitch products. Understanding this typology helps avoid confusion when purchasing.
Choosing an inflatable AirTrack is not just about comparing prices. Five decisive criteria determine the quality, safety, and durability of your track.
This is the number one criterion. Thickness (often 10, 20, or 33 cm) directly influences shock absorption and bounce height. A 10 cm track is suitable for yoga, stretching, and floor exercises; 20 cm is the versatile standard for amateur tumbling; 33 cm offers a dynamic bounce sought by experienced gymnasts and traceurs.
Quality PVC, double or triple layer, guarantees watertightness and longevity. Examine the seams: high-end models use reinforced heat-sealed seams, much more resistant than simple gluing. A non-slip surface limits slips.
A wide track (1m to 2m) reassures beginners and allows for lateral figures. The length depends on your space and your ambitions: the larger it is, the more sequences you can perform.
Transport handles and anchor rings facilitate movement and securing to the ground. Essential for outdoor use.
The size of your AirTrack should correspond to three parameters: your level, your available space, and the moves you aim for. Here is a comparative table to quickly guide you.
| Length | Recommended thickness | Audience | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 to 2 m | 10 cm | Child, beginner | Rolls, balance, yoga |
| 3 m | 10 to 20 cm | Teenager, recreational | Cartwheels, flexibility, jumps |
| 4 m | 20 cm | Regular practitioner | Flips, roundoffs, short sequences |
| 5 m | 20 to 33 cm | Confirmed, club | Somersaults, twists, series |
| 6 m and + | 33 cm | Competitor, cheer | Full tumbling, acrobatics |
Before purchasing, measure the usage area and add a safety margin of at least 1 meter on each side of the track. Indoors, check the ceiling height: a somersault on a 33 cm track requires a lot of vertical clearance. Outdoors, opt for a flat surface, free of stones or protruding roots.
Inflation pressure determines the firmness of the track. Too soft, it sinks and doesn't aid bounce; too hard, it becomes uncomfortable and increases the risk of impact. Most AirTracks inflate between 0.15 and 0.30 bar (approximately 2 to 4 PSI). Adjust the pressure to your weight and discipline: firmer for dynamic acrobatics, softer for floor work and children.
A dedicated electric blower inflates a track in 2 to 5 minutes. Avoid overly powerful compressors that could over-inflate and damage the seams. Many models come with a pump; otherwise, find everything you need in our blowers, pumps, and accessories section. A good blower also allows for quick re-inflation if the pressure drops slightly after several hours of use.
Safety is the raison d'être of the AirTrack: when used correctly, it drastically reduces the risk of injury. However, a few rules apply. Never practice alone when learning aerial moves; ensure a clear landing area; and respect the maximum load indicated by the manufacturer.
If your inflatable equipment is intended for collective use by children (play structures, parks, events), the European standard EN 14960 governs the safety of inflatable structures open to the public: fall heights, protective walls, anchoring points, wind resistance. A domestic AirTrack intended for sports training does not fall within this scope, but if you operate an inflatable play area, it is imperative to check the EN 14960 compliance of the equipment and its certificate. For leisure structures, also check out our inflatable obstacle courses.
Installing an AirTrack is quick, but a few steps ensure safe and durable use. Outdoors especially, anchoring is essential: a light track can move or lift due to wind or the momentum of jumps.
A well-maintained AirTrack lasts for many years. The PVC fabric is robust, but a few simple steps significantly extend its lifespan and preserve its performance.
After each outdoor session, wipe the surface with a damp sponge and mild soap (no aggressive solvents or bleach, which weaken PVC). Rinse with clear water and, most importantly, dry the mat completely before storing it: trapped moisture promotes mold and bad odors.
Partially deflate, fold or roll the track without too tight creases, and store it in its bag away from direct sunlight, frost, and rodents. Prolonged UV exposure discolors and hardens the fabric.
In case of a small leak, locate it by wiping soapy water over the area (bubbles reveal the hole), dry it, then apply the PVC patch provided in the repair kit. For seams, it is best to contact after-sales service. A puncture is never a fatality: most leaks can be repaired in a few minutes.
With regular maintenance and UV-protected storage, a quality track will last for years without losing its bounce.
Check the warranty on the heat-sealed seams and valve, which are the most stressed points of the product.
For daily use, leave the track partially inflated indoors rather than folding it up every day.
The AirTrack opens up a vast training field, from beginners to competitors. Its flexible surface ensures safe learning while providing enough energy to progress to aerial moves.
The AirTrack is also just one member of a large family of jumping equipment: if aerial bouncing appeals to you more, explore our inflatable trampolines, which are complementary for working on vertical rebound and coordination.
The price of an AirTrack varies greatly depending on its size, thickness, and manufacturing quality. On average, expect to pay: around a hundred euros for a small introductory track, two to four hundred euros for a versatile family model, and more for long and thick club-level tracks. The blower and repair kit represent an additional cost to anticipate.
The main difference lies in the landing technology. A classic gymnastics mat is filled with foam: it absorbs shocks but returns almost no energy, making it heavy, bulky, and static. The AirTrack, on the other hand, is air-inflated using Drop-Stitch technology: it combines shock absorption and dynamic rebound, facilitating rotations and jumps. It is also much lighter, deflates to fit in a bag, and is easily transportable. Finally, its uniform surface and adjustable firmness via pressure offer a versatility that a foam mat cannot match, from gentle yoga to intensive tumbling.
It all depends on your level, your moves, and your space. For a child or beginner, a 1 to 3-meter track with 10 cm thickness is sufficient for rolls and balances. A regular practitioner will aim for 4 meters with 20 cm to perform roundoffs and flips. Experienced gymnasts and clubs choose 5 to 6 meters with 33 cm for somersaults and twists. Always measure your space, adding a one-meter margin around the track, and check the ceiling height indoors. When in doubt, opt for a larger size: you rarely regret having gone too big, but often regret having gone too small.
Yes, the AirTrack is perfectly suited for outdoor use, which is one of its great strengths. However, a few precautions are necessary. Install it on a flat, clear surface, free of stones, roots, or sharp objects; a protective tarp under the track limits wear and perforations. It is imperative to anchor the track with stakes or weighted bags so that it does not move under the effect of wind or momentum. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, which discolors and hardens the PVC, and never leave the AirTrack inflated unsupervised in strong winds. After use, clean and dry before storing.
Maintaining an AirTrack is simple but crucial for its longevity. After each use, wipe the surface with a damp sponge and mild soap, without solvents or bleach. Rinse and, most importantly, dry the track completely before storing it, as trapped moisture causes mold and odors. For storage, partially deflate, roll or fold without too tight creases, and slide the track into its bag away from sun, frost, and rodents. Avoid placing heavy objects on it. In case of a small leak, soapy water reveals the hole; a PVC patch from the repair kit is usually enough to seal it in a few minutes.
The AirTrack lends itself to a huge variety of exercises, from the gentlest to the most acrobatic. Beginners can safely practice forward and backward rolls, balances, cartwheels, and flexibility (bridges, splits), with the surface protecting joints. Intermediate practitioners can perform round-offs, front and back flips. Experienced gymnasts can execute somersaults, twists, and full tumbling series. Beyond gymnastics, the AirTrack is used for cheerleading, parkour, circus arts, but also for fitness: core strengthening, soft plyometrics, and dynamic yoga. Always progress in stages, mastering each skill on the ground before performing it on the track.
Absolutely, provided the track and supervision are adapted. For younger children, choose a thickness of 10 cm and moderate inflation pressure for a softer landing. A short, wide track reassures and limits lateral falls. Adult supervision is essential as soon as the child attempts aerial figures. The AirTrack is an excellent motor development tool: it develops balance, coordination, and self-confidence while remaining fun. For collective children's structures in public places, check compliance with standard EN 14960.
In practice, yes: an electric blower is highly recommended. The air volume and pressure required make manual inflation very laborious. A dedicated blower inflates a track in 2 to 5 minutes and allows it to reach optimal firmness. Avoid overly powerful industrial compressors, which risk over-inflating and damaging the seams. Many models come with their pump; otherwise, you can find suitable blowers in our dedicated section. A good blower also serves to quickly re-inflate after several hours of use or in cold weather.
A good quality AirTrack, properly maintained, generally lasts 5 to 10 years. Longevity mainly depends on the quality of the PVC, the type of seams (heat-sealed seams resist much better than gluing), and storage conditions. The main enemies are UV rays, trapped moisture, and sharp objects. By systematically drying the track, protecting it from the sun, and immediately repairing small leaks, you significantly extend its lifespan. The valve and seams are the points to monitor first: prioritize a model guaranteed on these elements.
The AirTrack has revolutionized the practice of gymnastics at home and in clubs: safe, versatile, transportable, and durable, it supports both first steps and the most demanding acrobatics. The key to a successful purchase lies in three decisions: the right thickness according to your level, the right length according to your space, and rigorous maintenance to preserve performance over time. By applying the advice in this guide, you will avoid classic mistakes and enjoy a reliable track season after season.
Ready to take the plunge? Browse our complete selection in the inflatable Air Track gymnastics collection, equip yourself with the right blower and accessories, and explore our inflatable trampolines or our inflatable obstacle courses to vary the fun and progress even faster.
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