Information on Mini-trampoline Exercises

Information on Mini-trampoline Exercises
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Mini-trampoline exercises, also known as rebounder exercises, provide moderate-intensity aerobic exercise that can benefit your health in a variety of ways. The forces of gravity and acceleration that act on your body as you jump provide stimulation to your body's cells and lymphatic system. Mini-trampolines fit easily into small apartments and houses and provide a convenient way to work out indoors. These trampolines typically measure 38 to 48 inches in diameter. You can fold most of these trampolines for transport and storage.

Types

Beginning exercisers and individuals recovering from injuries can simply stand on the trampoline and bounce gently, without letting their feet leave the surface of the trampoline. As you get more comfortable on the trampoline, begin jumping off the trampoline's surface. You can jump with both feet at once, jog in place or perform jumping jacks. Try to jump continuously for five or 10 minutes at a time to get your heart rate up.

Impact

Jumping on a mini-trampoline provides a low-impact weight-bearing workout. Exercise that requires you to support your own weight and work against gravity can help you build stronger bones and prevent osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Low-impact forms of exercise provide safe alternatives to high-impact workouts like running for individuals with frail joints or osteoporosis.

Stability

Mini-trampoline exercises can help you improve your balance and coordination. As the trampoline's surface bends when you land, you must use your leg muscles to stabilize your body. Strengthening these muscles can improve your balance in daily life.

Benefits

Like other kinds of moderate aerobic exercise, mini-trampoline workouts can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and metabolic disorders. Because they force all of your body's cells to move, mini-trampoline exercises also provide healthy stimulation for the lymphatic system, according to Minna Lessig on the CBS Early Show. A healthy lymphatic system helps your body to remove waste from its cells more efficiently, promoting a strong immune system. In his book, "Jumping for Health," Morton Walker argues that mini-trampoline exercises improve oxygen circulation throughout the body and can improve your lung capacity and breathing.

References

Article reviewed by Lisa Dittrich Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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