Rebounding: The action of bouncing up and down against gravity on a mini-trampoline. This action effectively stimulates the lymphatic system without strain to the musculoskeletal system.
I started rebounding years ago. I had done research on how powerful it was at stimulating your lymphatic system so I gave it a shot. I bought my mini-trampoline at Walmart for $37 and it came with a rebounding workout DVD. The rebounding instructor on the DVD was older so I thought to myself “Ha! This is going to be a piece of cake.” Yeah right! Two minutes later, I was out of breath and laid out across the trampoline. Man, did I underestimate the power of this seemingly easy exercise! I felt defeated so I made a goal to increase my time on the trampoline every week by 2 minutes. I started out with 5 minutes then worked my way up until I was able to do at least a 30 minute session. Trust me, 5 minutes is a workout alone! I try to make an aim to rebound for at least 30 minutes 3 times a week and/or 5-10 minutes everyday.
The lymphatic system is an overlooked but extremely important system in the human body. The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that helps keep bodily fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections. It bathes each cell, carrying nutrients to the cell and waste products away. The lymph system is fully dependent on physical movement to do its job. Without adequate movement, the cells are left stewing in their own waste products and starving for nutrients. This contributes to degenerative diseases (arthritis, cancer, etc.,) and aging. So the purpose of exercising is not solely to maintain a certain physical appearance but mainly for health benefits.
Some Health Benefits of Rebounding:
- Increased lung capacity and oxygenation of the entire body
- Opening and increased function of capillaries
- Improved respiration and optimization of heart rate
- Allows for deeper and easier relaxation and sleep
- Better mental performance, with keener learning processes
- Improved digestion and elimination
- Aerobic conditioning and muscle toning
- Promotes tissue repair
- Helps increase the production of red blood cells
- Assists in the rehabilitation of a heart problem
- Greater balance and coordination
Check out Jumping for Health by Dr. Morton Walker. He summarizes various benefits of rebounding and provides testimonials from individuals who have used the mini-trampoline to help achieve better health. Who would have thought that jumping on the bed as kids would be healing to our bodies?!