The Advantages Of Jumping On A Trampoline Over Running

Jumping on a trampoline, also called rebounding, offers significant benefits over running for the health-conscious individual. People with health concerns may find jumping on a trampoline gentler on the joints and bones, and everyone can get a convenient, low-impact workout while improving balance and lymphatic circulation. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program and use safety precautions when jumping on a trampoline.

Lower Impact

Jumping on a trampoline offers an aerobic workout without the bone-jarring impact of running. When you run, you become air-bound longer than when you walk. When you foot hits the unyielding ground, it makes contact with greater force, or impact. This impact, while helpful for increasing bone mass, can cause joint pain and put you at an increased risk for injury. When you jump on a trampoline, the rubbery mat stretches and gives way to the force exerted by your falling body, reducing the impact on your bones and joints. Jumping on a trampoline burns about half the calories of running 5 miles per hour.

Balance Control

If you have a medical condition that predisposes you to falling, jumping on a trampoline can improve your sense of balance. A 2005 study published in the “Journal of Clinical Rheumatology” found that patients with osteoarthritis of the knee gained the ability to sense joint position better after using a trampoline. The ability to sense joint position helps improve balance and can help prevent falls.

Improved Circulation

During the height of your jump on a trampoline, you achieve momentary weightlessness. The effect temporarily decreases your lower body mass and helps redistribute fluids, such as lymph and blood, which can help increase your circulation as well as the cleansing function of your lymph glands.

Convenience and Privacy

Unless you have your own indoor track or choose to run in place, you need a long stretch of land in order to run. With a trampoline, especially a mini-trampoline, you can exercise almost anywhere. Mini-trampolines can be used indoors and stored in a closet or under the bed. Some models fold up for easy transport. Full-size trampolines fit in most yards but may require you to build a fence or install a locking gate to comply with insurance requirements.