An Exercise Trampoline Can Make Cardio More Fun. These Are 6 We Like.

An Exercise Trampoline Can Make Cardio More Fun. These Are 6 We Like.

8 min readAs a lifelong distance runner, I’ve had trouble finding low-impact cardio workouts that feel challenging enough when I’m not pounding the pavement. But that all changed when I discovered an exercise trampoline, also referred to as a rebounder. They use a similar style of trampoline to what you used to bounce around on as a kid in the backyard, just with a fitness twist. The result is that the sized-down versions are just as fun, but you also work up a sweat.Using an exercise trampoline is known as rebounding, and this type of workout is considered a high-intensity movement that’s low impact. That sounds a little confusing, but it basically means using an exercise trampoline will get your heart rate up there while giving your joints a break, something that can be especially appealing for runners. If you’re like me and crave a challenging lower-impact workout that doesn’t include an exercise bike or rower, rebounding might be your new favorite cardio workout.Best Exercise TrampolinesBest Overall: JumpSport 530 Pro​Best Foldable: Skybound Boogie Bounce Elite​Best Budget: Stamina Folding Trampoline​Best for Tight Spaces: Leaps & Bounds​Best Large Trampoline: ACON Fit 55in Hexagon Rebounder​​While rebounding workouts will get your heart rate up quickly, there are plenty of other health benefits to consider, too. A 2024 scientific review found that rebounding can be great for enhancing blood circulation, bone health, and balance. And a small, 2018 study of 18 women found that participants were able to lower their blood pressure and improve their VO2 max—a marker of cardiovascular fitness—on a 12-week rebounding program.Outside of research studies, Nikki Gnozzio, CPT lists off rebounding benefits of better balance, overall strength, and, of course, more fun. That last part is worth considering, especially if you’ve been struggling with workout motivation or boredom.Of course, you need a trampoline before you can try this out. According to the personal trainers we spoke with, a rebounder’s tension, adjustability, maximum weight, sturdiness, and size should all factor into your buying decision. Below are six options that stood out.ProsTrusted brand with decades of experienceSeven firmness settings for a customizable workoutStable design with arched legs to reduce tippingConsBulkier than fold-flat budget optionsNeeds indoor storage to maintain longevityTension TypeElastic cordAdjustable?YesSize45 x 45 x 12.5 inMaximum Weight325 lbThere are a lot of brands to choose from, but JumpSport stands out as one that’s stood the test of time. “JumpSport has been around since 1996 and is a well-respected brand,” says Melissa Cantillo, an ACE-certified personal trainer and fitness manager at Canyon Ranch. The brand’s mini trampoline line, which includes the JumpSport 530 Pro, popularized the bungee cord system that’s used in many exercise trampolines, she points out.This trampoline uses 36 adjustable elastic cords for a quieter bounce, with seven firmness settings to help you find your ideal tension. It also uses 16-gauge steel tubing for durability, which is why you can use this trampoline inside or outside (just make sure you bring it back indoors after a good bouncing session to extend the life of your trampoline).The JumpSport 530 Pro has an extension skirt to protect your feet in case you accidentally land on the cords. The legs are slightly arched at the top to lower the risk your trampoline will tip over. If space is a premium at your place, simply remove the legs and stash your trampoline in a closet or up against a wall to free up floor space.Read more: Best Under-Desk TreadmillsProsFolds in half for ultra-compact storageQuick, simple setup (mostly pre-assembled)Includes 1-month app trial with 100+ workoutsConsSmaller 39" diameter limits movement rangeNot ideal for high-intensity or advanced workoutsTension TypeElastic cordAdjustable?YesSize 39 x 39 x 11 in.Maximum Weight280 lbPlenty of trampolines have features to help you break them down into a smaller size for storage. The Skybound Boogie Bounce Elite takes that even further, with a trampoline that folds in half like a taco and slides into an included carrying bag. The trampoline is relatively small to begin with—it has a 39-inch diameter—but that works in your favor when it comes to storage.There’s a lot more to love about this trampoline, though. It has a built-in, adjustable handlebar for balance, which is especially handy given that smaller bouncing surface. The frame and skirt are already installed once it arrives, so you can simply snap in the legs and handlebar to get bouncing within minutes.If you’re looking for workout guidance, you’ll appreciate the free one-month trial of the Boogie Bounce app. It shares more than 100 routines you can flip through. After that, it’s $4.99 a month.Read More: Best Pilates Reformer MachineProsCompact 36" size—great for small spacesResistance bands offer a quieter, low-impact bounceDetachable legs for easy storageConsLower weight capacity (250 lbs) than most modelsNo handlebar for added stabilityTension TypeResistance bandsAdjustable?NoSize36 x 36 x 8.75 inMaximum Weight250 lbThe Stamina 36-inch Mini Trampoline has a petite enough size that won’t hog your workout space. It’s also just over $50, making it the most affordable option in our guide.In addition to its smaller circumference, it has detachable rubber legs you can pop out to prop against a wall or slide under your bed. Taylor Beebe, CPT points out that the weight capacity is also a bit lower than the other models—250 pounds—but the whole thing collapses for convenience. She also praises the included Müüv app that offers trampoline workouts.This trampoline uses resistance bands instead of steel coils, which likely contributes to its lower weight limit. So, if you weigh more than 250 pounds, it’s best to look for a different model, like the Leaps & Bounds Rebounder. It also doesn’t have a handlebar for added stability, although the 49.5-inch model does.ProsScrew-in legs make setup and storage super easyLays flat when disassembled—great for small spaces30-day return policy (rare for this category)ConsStability bar costs extraNot as premium-feeling as higher-end modelsTension TypeElastic cordAdjustable?YesSize40 x 40 x 13 in.Maximum Weight330 lbMany fitness trampolines have removable legs, but some are easier to get on and off than others. While some require some serious muscle and maneuvering to get these in and out, the Leaps & Bounds Bungee Rebounder has legs that just screw into the bottom, creating a pretty flat, easy-to-store surface when you’re ready to stash it away.This trampoline comes in your choice of 40- and 48-inch diameters. (This is the 40-inch model, but you can upgrade to the 48-inch option if you have the room for it.) The Bungee Rebounder uses adjustable elastic cords for quiet bouncing, along with a durable carbon steel frame.Leaps & Bounds offers rare perks you won’t see with most other exercise trampoline brands: You can return this after 30 days if it’s not a good fit, and the trampoline comes with a lifetime warranty. While this is minor, it’s still worth mentioning: This trampoline comes in your choice of seven cord colors. Just be aware that if you want to tack on a stability bar, it will set you back an extra $93.ProsMore room = better for full-range moves and added safetyAdjustable handlebar for balance and controlStrong warranty (10 years frame, 2 years mat)ConsNon-removable legs make storage harderTension TypeElastic cordAdjustable?YesSize55 x 55 x 14 in.Maximum Weight300 lbExercise trampolines generally fall into a category known as rebounders or “mini trampolines,” which basically means they’re smaller than those massive ones kids use in backyards. But rebounders have a relatively small bouncing surface, so you have to be a little mindful about where you jump. The ACON Fit Hexagon Rebounder is 55 inches across, with a 40-inch bouncing surface, which is one of the largest you’ll find. That’s worth considering, whether you prefer a larger bouncing area or just want to build in some added insurance that you won’t accidentally rebound off.This trampoline has a built-in handlebar that’s adjustable, in case you want extra help with balancing while you jump. The reinforced steel frame has six arched legs for stability. Keep in mind that the legs aren’t removable, just in case you want to store your trampoline in a closet or other smaller space.The elastic cords allow for a quieter bouncing experience. (The trampoline comes with extra bungees in case one breaks.) This trampoline comes with a 10-year warranty on the frame and two-year coverage on the mat to help protect your investment.ProsSolid mid-range price—good for beginnersSquare shape provides a more even, consistent bounceGood entry point if you’re new to reboundingConsLower weight capacity than premium modelsNot ideal for advanced or high-intensity workoutsTension TypeElastic cordAdjustable?YesSize39.4 x 39.4 x 13.4 inMaximum Weight285 lbThe Sunny Health Springless trampoline delivers the basics at a relatively moderate price tag, making it ideal for those new to rebounding and still figuring out if it’s for them.This trampoline has a less common square shape, which tends to provide a more consistent, uniform bounce across the entire mat. Since this trampoline is on the smaller side, that’s especially handy for small spaces. The smaller size and removable legs mean it won’t hog a lot of room at your place.Another perk for beginners? The Sunny Health Springless comes with the free SunnyFit app, which includes rebounding workouts to get you started.What to ConsiderDo exercise trampolines have different tensions?Tension is the tightness and level of resistance you’ll have on the trampoline as you jump. “Smaller exercise trampolines will be more resistant (have higher tension) because they sit closer to the ground, and you don’t want to be tapping the ground with each jump,” says Sydney Sherman, NASM-CPT. “They’re meant to absorb the shock as you land your jump, which is why they’re a great low-impact option for those of us with sensitive joints or coming back from an injury."Are exercise trampolines adjustable?Some trampolines allow you to tweak the settings to better suit your needs. An adjustable handle is key (if your trampoline has a handle), Gnozzio says. But some will also allow you to adjust the tension to create a bouncier or less bouncy feeling.Do exercise trampolines have a maximum weight?The maximum weight limit for an exercise trampoline will be different based on how it is constructed or the brand. Generally, the weight limit often varies from 250 to 450 pounds. The sturdiness of an exercise trampoline will also vary, but you'll want to make sure it has rubber grip covers for the legs to stay in place (and not scrape your floors) and a handlebar that doesn't easily move for stability.What size exercise trampoline should I get?Sure, you’re already aware that your trampoline needs to fit in your room. But you need plenty of room around it, like a foot on either side, just to be safe. "A lot of trampoline workouts involve arm movements, so you’ll want to have space around you, as well as above you for jumping," says Gnozzio.While you’re at it, don’t forget to factor in your ceiling height. A minimum 8-foot ceiling height is recommended, according to Cantillo. You don’t need to bounce in a room with an extra-high ceiling since you push into the trampoline more than you jump up, she explains. “Your feet may come off the trampoline anywhere from 1 inch to 8 inches depending on the workout,” Cantillo says.How We Chose​​We’ve continuously researched and updated our guide to the best exercise trampolines since we first published this story in 2021. To find the best exercise trampolines of 2026, we consulted with six personal trainers for their recommendations on elements to consider. We also got feedback from individual trampolines, taking careful note of the pros and cons of each. From there, we researched the most popular, top-rated exercise trampolines, stacking them up against expert feedback and advice. Only trampolines that met our strict criteria made the final guide.Meet the ExpertsTaylor Beebe, CPT is a personal trainer in California. She’s also a national qualifier for USA Powerlifting.Nikki Gnozzio is a certified personal trainer and founder of Junction Bodyworks.Sydney Sherman is a NASM-certified personal trainer.Aly Giampolo is the co-founder of The Ness.Ashantis Jones is a certified personal trainer based in Chicago.Melissa Cantillo is an ACE-certified personal trainer and fitness manager at Canyon Ranch.Shop More of Our Favorite Fitness GearBest Pilates Reformer Machine | Best Massage Guns | Best Fitness Trackers | Best Compression Socks | Best Workout Headphones |Best Acupressure MatKorin Miller is a seasoned freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Everyday Health, Food & Wine, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University and lives by the beach.Natascha is an editor and writer covering health, fitness, and the ways people move through the world. She’s been a NASM-certified personal trainer for more than a decade, with a background in functional strength training, corrective exercise, nutrition, and behavior change. She has additional CES, CNC, BCS, and SFC certifications. She is also a level-2 certified Spinning instructor. Her work has appeared in Bicycling, Runner’s World, and other outlets, and her experience spans both editorial and hands-on work across the fitness industry. Whether she’s writing about training, health, or performance, she’s most interested in making complicated topics useful, approachable, and helpful. She is currently the fitness and reviews editor for Women’s Health.

Original Source

Read the full article at Womenshealthmag →

KhanList aggregates and links to publicly available news content. We do not host full articles from third-party sources. Always verify important information with original sources.