Bochum Ban Fans From Jumping in Unison at Ruhrstadion After Engineers Warn of 'Trampoline Effect'

Bochum have banned supporters from jumping up and down in unison in the standing area of the Ruhrstadion's East Stand after engineers warned that the synchronised movement creates a "trampoline effect" that can leave some spectators feeling unwell.

The 2. Bundesliga club confirmed on Wednesday that, from 11 October, any synchronised movement in the East Stand's standing area will be prohibited. The ground has a capacity of about 26,000.

Engineers clear the structure but flag the bounce

The decision followed an engineering investigation carried out as part of a planned upgrade of the Ruhrstadion. The review cleared the stand's load-carrying capacity, but it also singled out the effect of mass, coordinated jumping during matches.

According to the club, the movement produces what the engineers described as a "trampoline effect" in the stand that could trigger discomfort among spectators who are not used to it.

Club 'regrets the unavoidable measures'

Bochum acknowledged the frustration the restriction is likely to cause among a fanbase known for its vocal support, but stressed that the alternative — limiting the stand's use — would have been worse.

"VfL regrets the unavoidable measures but is relieved that the East Stand can be used at full capacity, provided the ban on jumping is observed," a club statement read.

The club also pointed to the renovation already pencilled into its wider modernisation programme as a reason for optimism, arguing that the existing timetable spares it a lengthy new planning process.

"Fortunately, the renovation of the East Stand is already part of the modernisation project, meaning a lengthy planning process can be avoided and the ban on jumping lifted upon completion of the scheduled renovation work in 2028," the statement added.

What happens next

The prohibition takes effect on 11 October and will remain in force in the East Stand's standing section until the scheduled renovation work is completed in 2028. Until then, the stand will operate at full capacity, with the club relying on supporters to respect the no-jumping rule.