BOUNCE BACK TO FITNESS

Viwe Ndongeni-Ntlebi

Rebounding is more than just a workout. It offers an incredible health boost for the whole system.

FIT bouncing, also known as rebounding, is back and trendy.

Not only is this exercise fun but it also offers a highintensity workout that’s good for strengthening muscles and weight loss.

Many celebrities around the globe have been rebounding for years.

In South Africa, celebrities such as radio and TV personality Pabi Moloi, actress Zola Nombona and makeup artist, Clara Chimeloane have been spotted doing the bounce back challenge – the series of bounce class exercises to get them fit and toned for summer. A 2016 study, published in the International Journal of Sports Science, has concluded that rebounding exercise is twice as effective at improving aerobic fitness and 50% more efficient at burning fat than running. It also showed that exercising on a mini-trampoline increase vertical jumping ability.

Why is it gaining popularity now? Lisa Raleigh, a certified personal trainer, nutrition coach and life coach with a passion for wellness, says many people are looking for restorative exercises, without long-term wear and tear.

“The pandemic also contributed to the popularity. Many people were stuck indoors and some could not afford treadmills and were tired of running on the spot and doing multiple reps of burpees.

“Rebounding was the most affordable way of exercising safely with less impact. It was quiet affordable and the whole family could enjoy it. Right from sportsmen, athletes , beginners, and small children,” says Raleigh.

Why rebounding?

Raleigh says rebounding is more than just a workout. It offers an incredible health boost for the whole system. It supports the body’s natural detox processes, boosts circulation (therefore reducing cellulite), builds a strong core and tones incredibly.

The workouts of each class vary to prevent boredom. Each one is designed to help you build strength, burn fat and calories, and detox – all while having fun. You can’t help but smile every time you bounce!

Rebounding is the perfect allin-one exercise, including cardio, strength, balance, core and pelvic floor, making it an excellent exercise for moms.

“In addition to the benefits of traditional exercises, rebounding promotes the body's natural detox processes, helps drain lymph, and promotes balance by working the body’s proprioceptors,” says Raleigh.

She adds group fitness is making a comeback as well, with many people looking for like-minded communities and ways to connect. Plus... it’s fun! And the challenge of balancing keeps you fully present in the moment as you train.

Raleigh says classes can be between 45-60 minutes. It begins with a warm-up, where the music gradually becomes quicker to commence our cardio.

Exercises including ankle weights, body bars, Pilates balls and resistance bands provide a strength component, followed by a lymph pat down-helping to drain lymph and detox the body, and then a slow cooldown and stretch.

Unlike traditional forms of cardio, with rebounding you burn more calories, and build strength with minimal impact, says Raleigh.

It also boosts circulation and boosts your immune system. Other health benefits include, improving skin texture, reducing cellulite, and especially strengthening your core muscles and pelvic floor.

LISA Raleigh says rebounding is an affordable way of exercising with less impact. | SUPPLIED

Before we dive into the rebound exercise routines and shove the children off the trampoline to shed a few calories.

Trampoline first- a trampoline company says there are a few things you should know about rebounder workouts:

Don’t forget to breathe while you’re rebounding.

Keep a challenging pace, but don’t go overboard. You should be able to hold a conversation while you’re exercising.

Stretch before and after your trampoline workout to prevent injuries.

If you’re worried about balance, consider ordering front or sidebars to add support and help you build your confidence.

Wear comfortable clothing while you jump.

GROUP fitness is making a comeback.