Whether you choose to jump on a large trampoline outdoors or a small rebounder in your basement, this workout is a hoppin' good time. Although not as common as running as a way of staying in shape, jumping on a trampoline is an ideal way to breathe fresh air into your workout when you start to dread the monotony of running.
Impact
Although you can wear comfortable shoes and run with a low gait, this exercise still provides significant impact to your joints. The average person might not experience joint pain while running, but if you have sore joints, running isn't an ideal exercise for you. Jumping on a trampoline provides far less impact than running because with each bounce, the surface of the trampoline moves with your feet.
Calories Burned
Few simple exercises can help you burn calories as quickly as running, which makes running a logical choice if you're trying to improve your physique. However, jumping on a trampoline helps you burn calories more quickly than some other exercises. A person who weighs 155 pounds will burn 298 calories during 30 minutes of running at 5 mph, but if the same person jumps on a trampoline for 30 minutes, she'll still be able to burn 129 calories, which is slightly more calories burned than weight training or playing volleyball.
Convenience
It can be a headache to lace up your running shoes and head out for a run, especially during inclement weather or if you live in an area with plenty of noisy traffic. Jumping on a trampoline, either indoors or outdoors, is a convenient way to get some daily exercise without the hassle of running. If you use a small rebounder indoors, you can watch your favorite TV program while working out.
Other Benefits
Jumping on a trampoline on a regular basis provides a wide range of other health benefits, including better cardiovascular health, improved leg strength and better balance, coordination and core strength. An added bonus to a trampoline workout is that it can be more entertaining than running. Although many people enjoy running, it's an arduous, repetitive task for others. Jumping on a trampoline can be an exhilarating way to burn calories and improve your overall health -- without it feeling like a workout.
