Diabetes and Exercise: Health Benefits On The Rebounder
There’s something inherently playful about bouncing, which is why so many people enjoy rebounding. Rebounding, or exercising on a mini-trampoline, provides an amazing array of health benefits and is a great way to add fun and variety to weekly exercise routines. It’s also a weather-proof activity since it can be done indoors or out.
Best Rebound Benefit
The health advantages of rebounding are partly owed to the gravitational pull it subjects the body to, ranging from zero at the apex of each bounce, and up to three times the force of gravity at the bottom. These G-forces are particularly good for one of the unsung heroes of our body, the lymphatic system.
The lymph mechanism transports nutrients to our cells and takes toxic waste products away. To perform this essential service the lymph system relies on our body’s physical movements.
Lymph fluid flows through channels, called vessels, containing one-way valves that push lymph along—always in the same direction. Since the primary lymph vessels run up our legs, arms, and torso, the vertical motion of rebounding effectively pumps the nourishing lymph along—and prevents our cells from marinating in their own waste.
Benefits For Diabetes
Besides the boost that bouncing provides our lymph fluids, people with type 1 or 2 diabetes can also enjoy some rebounding benefits specific to diabetes concerns:
- Rebounding can be done at a mild, moderate, or vigorous pace; with mild to moderate bouncing people can still breathe comfortably while burning calories and body fat.
- Exercising on mini-trampolines can be done at any fitness level so it’s doable for beginners—as long as they have their doctor’s okay. Novices can start by bouncing gently with their feet in constant contact with the trampoline. This simple bounce is sufficient for obtaining rebounding’s health rewards. Many rebounders come with detachable safety bars that wary exercisers can hold onto.
- Since rebounding does not put undue stress on feet or legs, it may be an exercise that those with neuropathy discomfort can tolerate. Bouncing also improves balance by stimulating the vestibule in our middle ear, and it helps people learn to shift their weight properly and be more aware of the body’s positions.
- The increased G-forces of rebounding strengthen all the cells in our body, including those in our immune system that help ward off and fight infection.
- Rebounding is a low-impact aerobic activity, excellent for cardiovascular health.
- Jumping on mini-trampolines is relaxing, and reduces physical and emotional stress. It may help alleviate symptoms of depression that frequently co-occur with diabetes.
Most adults can safely begin rebounding with five minutes sessions, gradually increasing the time. Out-of-shape seniors should start with three, or four two-minute sessions scattered throughout the day; this gives their connective tissues time to strengthen. Anyone who has been sedentary or has chronic health issues should check with a doctor before taking up rebounding.
Since top of the line rebounders cost $200 to $500, beginners may want to check out the highly affordable Stamina brand (about $40) which is well-reviewed on websites, and at Amazon.
Sources: Healing Daily, Dr. Axe, Wellness Mama
Photo: Pexels