Trampolining For Weight Loss

Trampolining for weight loss uses mini-trampolines, not the big backyard models. Mini-trampolines are inexpensive, portable, don't take up much space and are easy to use. According to Ann Louise Gittleman in "Hot Times," a key advantage of trampolining, also known as rebounding, is that people of all ages can do it. Lucy Beale, in "Complete Idiot's Guide to Weight Loss," also cites quicker endorphin release in rebounding than in many other forms of aerobic exercise.

Suggested Routines

Newcomers to rebounding begin with light bouncing for five minutes at a time. As strength and stamina increase, progress to 20 minutes a day for best effects. For a harder workout, jump faster and lower. Shoshanna Katzman, an acupuncturist and weight-loss program leader, as cited in "Alternative Cures," regards trampolining as "the best weight-loss exercise." She advocates trampolining 20 to 30 minutes three to five times a week.

Weight Loss

In "Alternative Medicine Magazine's Definitive Guide to Weight Loss," Ellen Kamhi writes that the trampoline is perfect for weight loss because you can use it no matter what your fitness level is, and it works quickly. Kamhi sees results in people rebounding just 10 to 15 minutes a day. Trampolining is thought to be helpful in removing one of the most resistant forms of body fat, cellulite.

Cellulite

Cellulite consists of lumpy deposits of fat in the connective tissue under the skin's surface. Once deposited, it is notoriously difficult to get rid of. Trampolining, followed by certain massage techniques, may aid in breaking down cellulite, according to Nan Kathryn Fuchs in her book "The Health Detective's 456 Most Powerful Healing Secrets." Fuchs observes that cellulite deposits begin to disappear within two weeks of starting a rebounding program. She writes that the beneficial effects of trampolining on the lymphatic system is key to cellulite reduction.

Trampolining and Lymph

Trampolining aids lymph circulation through muscle action, but there is an additional benefit. The frequent changes in gravity during bouncing set up a lymphatic pumping action, and lymph vessels expand to carry more fluid. According to Kamhi, landing on the trampoline at the end of a bounce exposes the body to twice the normal force of gravity, stimulating lymphatic flow more effectively than running does.

Calories Burned

During a half hour of trampolining exercise, the average 160-lb. woman can expect to burn around 80 calories, according to FitDay. The average 190-lb. man will burn approximately 100 calories for the same duration of trampolining.