Rebounders are mini-trampolines used when doing rebound fitness exercises. Rebound exercise can be a fitness program in itself, or it can add diversity to any fitness routine.
Several different styles of rebounder mini trampolines are available. The sizes of the mini-trampolines vary from 30 to 48 inches in diameter. They come in both square and round versions. The legs might be welded on, screwed on, or bolted to the frame. The legs are about 8 to 10 inches high.
Tips on purchasing a rebounder
Prices vary, of course, but keep these guidelines in mind when purchasing a mini trampoline:
- The designs with 6 legs have greater stability. The 4-leg models have been known to topple over.
- Unscrewable legs are available for easier storage.
- A solid spring system is important to ensure adequate support for your joints.
- A non-slip mat provides stability for some of the trickier maneuvers, if you decide to do advanced moves!
- The mat should also incur no stretch during the downward landing, while at the same time providing a resilient rebound
- Look for a heavy-duty steel frame; an aluminum frame is more likely to bend.
- You may get what you pay for -- inexpensive models may be stiff and not provide adequate cushioning and support.
- Quality materials and construction is very important
- If it’s important to you, there are models manufactured exclusively in the Unites States.
What you don't want when buying a rebounder
- Screw-on legs (the threads wear thin)
- Aluminum frame (can bend easily)
- Springs that stretch out of shape
- Mats made out of canvas (they can split or stretch causing stress on your spine or possible turned ankles)
Some units come with spring-loaded legs for easier storage. There is another rebounder that can actually be folded in half so it can be stored or transported more easily. You’ll want to check out the units made by Needak Manufacturing. They are made entirely in the United States and they appear to be the Cadillac of rebounders. Urban Rebounder also makes mini-trampolines and has a selection of workout videos.
Rebound exercise equipment can be found at most sports equipment shops, or by mail order through internet web sites. If you are shopping in a store, feel free to take off your shoes, be careful, and give the equipment a try. The mat will seem quite stiff -- that's perfectly normal.
There is a lot of rebound exercising information available. You will be amazed to read about the significant health benefits that can be had by rebounding. This type of workout benefits your body at the cellular level, and if you're really curious, the science of rebounding plays a big role in explaining why and how this exercise creates a healthier you. And you'll never be bored with this type of exercise once you add a variety of steps and moves to your routine and then begin to use your imagination.
SOURCES:
- Dr. James R. White, Jump for Joy (New York: Arco Publishing, Inc., 1984)
- JB Berns, Urban Rebounding (New York, NY, 1999).
- Albert E. Carter, The New Miracles of Rebound Exercise (Scottsdale, Arizona, A.L.M. Publishers, 1988).
- Linda Brooks, Rebounding to Better Health (KE Publishing, 1995).
- Albert Earl Carter, Founder of Rebound Exercise, Air, Inc., accessed December 17, 2010, http://www.healthbounce.com/
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