Benefits of Using a Rebounder

Rebounding

Where to begin? I will start by professing my deep love for the rebounder, the amazing device that helped me change my life. If you haven’t heard of a rebounder, it is essentially a mini-trampoline, but there is nothing mini about it. The benefits of “rebounding”, or jumping on a mini-trampoline, are incredible. I have personally benefited in each of the following areas and can attest to the claims companies often make in regards to the benefits of using this device. After sharing my experience with many of my family, friends and clients, some are now enjoying the same health benefits. It is very important to choose a rebounder with elastic bungee cords verses metal. These elastic cords help to protect your back and joints. It is also important to speak to your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise.

AMAZING BENEFITS

1) works muscles all over your body

2) increases your endurance

3) strengthens your bones at any age

4) is gentle on the joints

5) allows you to work your cardiovascular system without taxing the body

6) stimulates the lympathic system which cleans out the toxins, bacteria, dead cells, and other waste products in your body

7) with small amounts of pressure on your bones, rebounding helps them to grow strong; increases bone density, strength, and formation

8) helps pelvic floor, prevents urinary incontinence, and helps to stabilize hip joints

9) improves balance and motor skills

10) improves vision - stimulates the vision receptors and strengthens the eye muscles responsible for tracking objects

11) improves memory by improving blood circulation to the brain

12) improves sleep - relax and have higher quality of sleep

INTERESTING FACT: Did you know that your calf muscle is considered your "second heart?" When jumping on a rebounder, your calves squeeze the veins in your lower legs to help return deoxygenated blood from the feet up towards the chest. Your second heart only works when your legs are moving.

IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS

1) reduce the risk of falls or other injuries by making sure the trampoline is stable before using; check that the legs are tightened, and that it is on a stable surface

2) purchase the bar so that you can hang on if needed

3) keep the rebounder away from walls or furniture

4) always supervise young children and store the trampoline when not in use if children are around

5) stop immediately if you feel pain, tightness in your chest, or if you experience difficulty breathing

6) do a variety of movements to avoid overuse of certain muscles

7) it takes time for our bodies to adjust to new movements especially if you are not used to jumping, so refrain from using if your are feeling dizzy or faint

HOW I USE MY REBOUNDER

1) I always warmup first. I push my feet into the rebounder (not jumping yet) and bounce for a minute. I then take simple jumps (not very high) to get started. I bounce about one inch in the air.

2) Moving my feet like scissors, I jump back and forth, moving my arms as well. Just keep moving in any way you feel stable and comfortable.

2) Next, jumping jacks which are really fun to do!

3) I do H.I.I.T. Exercises (High Intensity Interval Training). 30 seconds of a fast jog on the rebounder followed by simple slow movements for another 30 seconds. I repeat this process five more times. Be sure to count or you will not get to 30 seconds! 4) Once my high intensity interval training is completed, I pick up small hand weights and jump slowly making sure that I am breathing and tightening the muscles between my inner thighs (pelvic floor workout)

5) My favorite thing to do on the rebounder is a simple joyful bounce. This is when I get a little higher in the air. It is very important to concentrate when doing this so that you do not lose your balance and fall off of the rebounder. You always want to KNOW YOUR SURFACE AREA. 6) From there, I will take small jumps from side to side, left to right and front to back moving my arms.

7) When you feel comfortable, you may try twisting your body slightly while bouncing. Another movement to try is lifting one knee up at a time as well. 8) Cool down by gently bouncing, pressing your heels into the rebounder as you bounce. Slow your bounce as you complete your workout.

9) Stretch by bending forward and hanging onto the edge of the rebounder (make sure you are standing in the center of the rebounder when doing this stretch). Be sure you feel stable when doing this.

10) Remember to always breathe as you workout and to step off when needed. Small steps lead to long sustainable actions.

I typically use the rebounder in these ways for 20 minutes every day. I would love to hear if this is helpful to you, if you have tried this form of exercise, and what results you have achieved. Be sure to comment below!

Be well!

Elise xo