The pogo stick itself was created in the late 1800s, but it wasn't until 1957 that the two-handle version — its modern iteration — was invented by George Hansburg. The original stick had only one vertical handle, which was said to endanger the rider's chin. The later upgrade not only improved safety for users but also allowed them to jump higher and even perform stunts. The new sport of stunt pogo involves backflips and extreme tricks during competition.