Jumping on Trampolines for Exercise!

Have you ever considered using trampolines for exercise? If so, you've been thinking along the right lines. Trampolines are great fun but they also provide relatively effective, efficient, and safe activity that improves health. Working out or even just "playing" on a trampoline regularly can improve a person's coordination, energy levels, flexibility, and stability.

How does a Trampoline Work the Body?

When you jump and move on a trampoline it works the heart and lungs – making it very aerobic. So much is the case that trampoline exercises are even used by astronauts as part of their training to prepare for weightlessness. Studies show that using trampolines for exercise burns calories better than other aerobics like running, while remaining low-impact. 10 minutes on a trampoline is like jogging a mile!

When combined with other types of exercise (weight/resistance training, flexibility training) it is an excellent addition to a fitness plan. Besides the benefits of toning muscles it appears that jumping on a trampoline improves the functioning of the lymphatic system, strengthening the immune system. About the only people who should take caution with trampolines are those with back problems, or other physical conditions that jumping may aggravate. In this case, please consult a doctor.

Finding or buying a Trampoline:

If you decide that using trampolines for exercise may be a great idea for you and/or your family (warning: you will have a difficult time keeping the kids off it!), step one is to see if there are any facilities in your area where you can try some out. You're going to want to feel, first hand, if investing in this equipment is worth it considering how you feel during and afterward.

Getting Started:

When you first try a trampoline, remember to stretch out first. After that, get on and bounce lightly keeping your feet a little apart for improved balance. Next you can try a couple of common exercises. Bounce bringing one knee up, return, then bring the other knee up. Repeat this for several minutes. Remember it takes a little time to get a good rhythm and balance. Once you feel wholly comfortable with one leg at a time, try both (a tuck position). As before repeat this several times.

A second exercise takes jumping jacks to a whole new level. It's just like doing a jumping jack on the ground but with a lot more bounce. This one takes a little coordination and you may have to try several times to get it right.
Two other basic exercises you can try include:

Swimming: moving your arms as you jump as if you were doing a swimmer's crawl (the same hand and knee should go up, followed by the opposite hand and knee in each jump)

Twisting: as you go up in the air twist to the right. On the next jump twist to the left. Repeat.

If at any time you feel you're getting out of control on the trampoline, put your arms out straight in front and bend your knees when you come down on the surface. This will stop your motion.

If you intend to buy a trampoline do some research and make sure you have the space for the type chosen. When setting up trampolines for exercise, take caution to make sure you're following instructions and consider having safety netting (just in case). Used trampolines are not recommended as they may have defects that could cause injury.

" . . .the most effective and most efficient form of exercise ever devised by man. . ." - Albert E. Carter

Trampolines aren't the only way to have a good time working out. The EnyMyHealth.com Store has a wide variety of items designed to enhance your fitness efforts and help you have fun doing it! Check it out today!

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