Rebounding: Fad or Functional?

Lymphatic Drainage

One of the biggest benefits of jumping, and rebounding specifically, is that it stimulates lymph drainage. Lymph is a fluid composed of white blood cells and plasma. It both originates from, and returns to, the blood - in this way, it works closely with circulatory system.

Lymph delivers nutrients and proteins to the body’s organs, while also picking up and removing waste from those organ systems. Before returning the tainted lymph back to the circulatory system, it gets cleansed by the lymph nodes - these are the “factories” in which white blood cells destroy toxins. If your lymphatic system is weak, so follows your immune system and general well-being.

Bouncing and jumping create quick shifts in gravity, which cause lymphatic vessels to expand. This occurs as lymph is actively pulled down through the ducts (because of the gravity shifts) within each lymph vessel. This creates a sort of lymph pump, which helps the lymphatic system both collect and remove toxins.

Proprioception 

Proprioception describes an individual’s awareness of how their body sits and functions within their environment. People who don’t often practice their proprioception (through sports or other acts of coordination) or have vestibular issues, might be considered “clumsy”, or often find themselves bumping into things (like door frames!). This skill is especially important if you wish to age safely, as many of the falls that our elderly sustain are caused in part by a lack of balance/ability to right ourselves properly via our reflexes. Proprioception improves performance not only in activities like sports or dance, but also generally improves balance, prevents injury, and aids in rehabilitation after injury does occur. 

Heart Health

Rebounding is also an excellent option when it comes to supporting your cardiovascular health. While bouncing on a mini tramp, you can easily enter and sustain both zone 2 and zone 3 cardio. If you haven’t heard about this concept before, here is a link to an article that goes over the basics of the different cardio zones! My husband and I are somewhat new to the zone 2 game, as it’s something we haven’t prioritized before. But for those who are interested in fat loss/body recomposition, zone 2 is where it’s at!

While it may not constitute your entire cardio program, rebounding is a fun and functional option to incorporate into your routine - with plenty of video classes on the internet ranging from simply getting steps in, to going full out dripping sweat! The heart is also a muscle, so it’s important to get some form of cardio in when it comes to the goal of longevity and healthy living.