A trampoline just might be your new secret weapon for optimal physical health. When you think of trampolines you may imagine children doing flips in the backyard. But, mini trampolines aka rebounders are becoming easy, accessible, and affordable options for physical activity. What I love about rebounders is they’re perfect for people who don’t have much time or are intimidated by workout classes or crowded gyms. Plus, some of the rebounding ‘before and after’ photos are pretty amazing.
This Instagram video of Goldie Hawn using her new mini-trampoline is inspirational. At 75, she’s having the time of her life and getting a great workout. It’s so inspiring, Vogue and a few publications started covering mini-trampolines benefits during quarantine. Rebounders are great for those who want a versatile, and portable workout option. Physical exercise is an important part of our self-care and overall health. Rebounders don’t take up too much space so they’re easy to take in and out of a closet or under your bed for a quick workout.
In this blog, I’ll cover the benefits of using a rebounder, the basics of using a rebounder, and helpful recommendations for choosing your rebounder.
Health Benefits of Rebounding
You may not think it but there are so many awesome benefits to simply jumping up and down on the mini-trampoline. Rebounders are not like regular trampolines. They’re specifically engineered to handle your weight so you can jump and move your body. They create a specific workout that targets muscle groups, burns calories, and can even increase your longevity.
Muscle & Cellular Health
The G-force that is created when you jump up and down on a rebounder helps stimulate the trillions of cells in your body. When you are at the top of your jump, you become weightless. As you fall, gravity forces your muscles, organs, and even your cells to adjust. This can cause your muscles to flex and build up muscle tone and improve balance. This can even strengthen your cells. They have to react and become denser which can help your tissues be more elastic. That means reduced wrinkles.
Strength and Toning
Of course, your muscle tone and strength will improve. You wouldn’t think jumping would be a strength workout but your flexing muscles to accommodate your weight and keep your balance. You can also modify your stance to focus on specific muscles for a full workout and tone-up. A lot of the muscles targeted in rebounder workouts are the leg, thighs, and core. But you can also move your upper body as well.
Hearth Health
Speaking of muscles, your heart will benefit from the positive stress created while using a rebounder. The movement helps coordinate the fibers in your heart for better pumping and blood flow. It will also increase mineralization and blood flow to the cells of the body.
Reduced Cellulite
Worried about cellulite? You won’t just burn a lot of calories from the activity. Rebounders work with your body to shift everything around. Plus, it’s a high-intensity workout that can burn a lot of calories. It can help reduce the appearance of cellulite due to its effects on both your lymphatic and musculoskeletal systems. One of the key benefits on the lymphatic system is enhanced circulation, which helps you eliminate toxins and excess fluids, further improving your skin appearance and overall health.
Immunity Boost & Detox
Rebounding improves your lymphatic system. That’s basically your body’s natural detoxifying system. There is no organ to “pump” lymph in your body. Lymph is the fluid that houses all of your white blood cells. This can cause bloating or disease. A rebounder stimulates this system causing your body to improve waste drainage and get rid of bad cells and other things that may be trapped in the body.
Energy & Sleep
Your energy levels will improve with a rebounder. And, due to better, more consistent energy levels, you are bound to get on a healthier sleep schedule. There’s less of an excuse not to work out when you can just pull out your rebounder. And the increased activity
Mood
Personally, I noticed my mood was always better after working out on a rebounder. It’s almost impossible to jump without smiling! I was suddenly that little girl in the backyard jumping up and down again. To boost your mood, try reading out positive affirmations such as “I am worthy of a good life” and “I love myself” while jumping up and down. It may sound silly, but it truly will change your mindset before heading out into or returning from the world.
Rejuvenation
The movement helps you maintain balance and coordination. This can increase your brain health and focus. The increased movement can help shift your energy. The increased density in your cells can keep them elastic and looking younger. Not to mention, the movement can remind you of your youth. Combined this can add to an overall rejuvenation.
How to Use a Rebounder
Remember it is always a good idea to speak to your doctor about any new exercise program to avoid injuries.
While it may seem a little childish at first, a rebounder is actually a great exercise for people of any age. You can do jumping jacks, sprints, or use one leg at a time (with caution) to mix up your workout. It can help those of us who are older with balance and musculoskeletal maintenance. Seniors can even use rebounders because the exercise is low impact. Rebounders can be used for osteoporosis and other physical therapy.
A lot of people like to use their rebounder in their home or outside in the sun. You can take it out when you’re watching TV or listening to music. Many fans of the workout use it in the morning to awaken their body. You can also use it after you get home from work because, after about 20 to 30 minutes of rebounding, your energy will shift. You can get an energy boost while also eliminating all of that work stress. You literally jump it out of your body.
Selecting a Rebounder
I am always looking for ways to keep the cost of health care products affordable. But with equipment like a rebounder, it is better to do your research and pay for what you need. You will find that some of the cheaper models may actually NOT be good for your health. Rebounders must be properly engineered for working out to accommodate your body weight, range of motion, and certain health conditions. Be sure to choose one that will also fit your body frame so you have the right amount of movement space.
Don’t know which rebounder to get? No worries! Here are a few I like:
- Maximus Pro Gym Rebounder – Professional athletes and holistic therapists alike go for this model. It also includes 7 workouts whether you’re a beginner or advanced. The Maximus Pro can hold up to 300 pounds.
- Jumpsport 250 – This rebounder is known for its large jumping surface, nearly silent performance, and the ability to last 3 to 4 times longer than other rebounders on the market.
- Bellicon Classic – Holding up to 440 lbs, the Bellicon Classic is the go-to for long-term bouncers. It comes fully assembled, includes an instructional DVD and the ability to design an online customized workout program.
- Maximum Life Bounce – If you want to just get started with limited funds, the Maximus Life Bounce will do the trick. It can hold up to 265 lbs and is comparable to other models.
Do you have a rebounder or have used one before? If so, let me know what you think in the comments. Also, check out my YouTube channel for videos
XO – Serena
