Rebounding...

Today's tip is on a simple, inexpensive, and FUN way to get great exercise and improve your overall health. You may have used one of these before. When I was a kid we used my friend's to have "slam dunk" contests in the driveway. They're called rebounders. The mini trampolines that you see at stores usually for under $20. You may have wondered before what exactly they are used for so let's just cover a few.

I want you to think first about what is happening when you jump on a trampoline. Your entire body, including soft tissues and fluids, are moving in one direction, then reverse smoothly and move in the opposite direction. These forces work with the cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, and musculoskeletal system simultaneously. The spinal column including the discs are pumped up and down improving nutrient flow, while the cerebrospinal fluid is pumped through providing increased nutrition to the brain and spinal cord.

With the rebounder you need only bounce up and down lightly to perform, so even those with less than optimal stability and balance can benefit. Overall this is a fantastic exercise that takes little time but has benefits ranging from weight loss to spinal rehabilitation.