If you think trampolines are just a fun distraction to help the kids blow off a bit of steam in the garden, think again. In fact, bouncing on a trampoline is something we grown ups could benefit from in a big way.

Known as ‘rebounding’ in exercise circles, research (by NASA, no less) has shown that bouncing on a mini trampoline is one of the most effective exercises you can do and has a wide range of health benefits beyond just keeping those extra pounds off. The split second of weightlessness we experience at the top of a jump and the increased g-force generated on way back down can have some remarkable effects on our bodies. NASA report that just 10 minutes on a mini trampoline is equivalent to 30 minutes of running. Here are just some of the potential health benefits.

1. Getting your lymphatic system moving. Our lymphatic system is incredibly important for removing cellular waste from our bodies and keeping our immune system healthy, but it doesn’t have a ‘pump’ of its own like our circulatory system. It’s stimulated by moving our bodies, and jumping is particularly efficient.
2. It’s low impact. The springs or bungees on a trampoline can cushion the impact of movement on our joints by up to 80% compared to hard surfaces. Many people with arthritis use a mini trampoline when exercising for this reason.
3. It can strengthen your bones, cartilage and muscles, help stabilise your joints and reduce stiffness. This is particularly important as we age and can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. If you have mobility or balance problems, many trampolines come with a stabiliser bar so you can exercise safely.
4. It boosts your mental health. Exercising has been proven to improve our mood, reduce fatigue and lower stress levels and rebounding is no exception. It’s also easier to feel brighter and more alert if your lymphatic system is functioning well. (Plus bouncing up and down is loads of fun.)
5. It gives you a full body workout. Unlike some other exercises, jumping requires you to engage muscles over your entire body and the movement agitates every cell, so it’s a great overall workout.
6. It helps your heart. As with any good cardio exercise, rebounding can help improve the circulation of oxygen and is thought to help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
7. It can help you maintain a healthy weight and tone up your body. As it’s an aerobic exercise, rebounding can help you burn calories – how many obviously depends on how intensive your workout routine is. As it engages your whole body, it can help if you need an overall tone-up. Some avid bouncers also report that rebounding has helped reduce their cellulite.

The even better news is that you don’t have to launch yourself that high to experience the benefits of rebounding. Of course, you can go to town and do an intensive workout if you’re able to, but even a simple 10 minute ‘health bounce’ – where your feet stay firmly on the trampoline’s surface – is enough to achieve many of the benefits listed above. The good thing is you can tailor the intensity and longevity of your bouncing to suit your physical abilities and wellness goals.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and effective exercise to boost your overall wellbeing, why not jump into the world of rebounding? There are plenty of workouts for people of all abilities available on YouTube that will give you some pointers. (Obviously, as with any exercise, it might not be suitable for everyone so it’s always advisable to play safe and consult your doctor before having a go, especially if you experience eye or neck problems, have had a joint replacement or are expecting a baby.)