The rebounder also known as a mini trampoline is a great and fun way to exercise. You can use them at a gym or purchase one for your home. They start at around $35 and can be found usually at any store that sells exercise equipment including Meijer or Wal-Mart.

The reason they are so great is that they are small and can be set to the corner of the room or easily put away if guests come over. However, it would be ideal to keep it out or in sight so you remember to use it!  You can use it to add variety to another workout routine or you can use it anytime to fit in exercise. For example, some people use it when watching television or in between tasks.

Depending on your needs you can use the rebounder for a low intensity work out or for a higher intensity aerobic workout. According to one small study by the University of Alabama, using hand held weights while rebounding can provide more of an aerobic workout for the cardiovascular system (1).

1. Smith JF, Bishop PA, Ellis L, Conerly MD, Mansfield ER. Exercise intensity increased by addition of handheld weights to rebounding exercise. J Cardiopulm Rehabil. 1995 Jan-Feb;15(1):34-8.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDUUBx5wlXE  - shows what a workout would look like- 1 minute

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0th5xUMSz0  - discusses benefits

http://www.ehow.com/about_5349234_rebounder-exercise.html - basic info.

http://www.howtodothings.com/health-and-fitness/a3219-how-to-do-mini-trampoline-exercises.html

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Julie Koning
Senior Dietetics Student
Eastern Michigan University