Start the New Year with a Bounce!

Each year people make resolutions they know they will not stick to. We promise ourselves we will go to the gym more, cut down on the alcohol, not eat as much junk food and not flush our money away on silly things.

Why not take a different approach? Why not promise ourselves to have fun, spend quality time with family and friends and take up a hobby we will actually enjoy.

The answer to achieve a happier and healthier you for 2012 is…trampolining!

Trampolining is a surprisingly popular sport.

Did you know that NASA scientists researched that rebounding is 68% more effective than jogging! Which is good news for us as if requires less effort, and most importantly, it’s fun.

Trampolining allows you to build upper and lower body strength just as effectively as weight-lifting, without experiencing strained and torn muscles. Rebounding is believed to be an all-round exercise that benefits the body equally as swimming.

Also, did you know that trampoline exercise has been labelled ‘miraculous’ as people feel a lot happier after trampolining. Trampolining can induce dopamine chemicals to the brain, making you feel livelier and happier.

Bouncing can really make you giggle. Researchers believe laughter can reduce stress levels by increasing the number of antibody-producing cells that enhances the effectiveness of T cells. This means you will develop a stronger immune system, reducing physical effects of stress.

Laughter also results to a belly buster work-out! Yes, really. A good giggle will exercise the diaphragm and contract the abs.

Who says you need to slog it out at the gym and feel miserable to gain a good workout. Simply bounce on your trampoline daily and you will experience the benefits mentally and physically.

Trampolines are also a great way to gather family and friends together. Garden trampolines are becoming increasingly more popular as they are a great toy to entertain children that is both fun and beneficial. Plus, it means parents can have a cheeky bounce while the kids are at school. Why not invest in a garden trampoline in time for the spring garden party season?

If you do not have a big garden, that doesn’t mean you cannot enjoy the sport. Mini-trampolines can be bought from supermarkets and trampoline retailers. These are perfect for busy buddies who do not have a lot of free time to exercise. Mini-trampoline workout DVDs can provide useful techniques that you can enjoy before or after work. It is so easy to implement this gentle exercise into your daily routine.

Trampolining doesn’t sound like a daunting resolution, does it? If you are feeling more adventurous, you can visit your local leisure centre or city council and find out where local trampolining classes and clubs are held.

Trampolining is a resolution you will stick to and provides great health benefits without the hard work.

Watch out for the Gymnastic Olympics on the 3rd and 4th of August at North Greenwich Area, to see how the professionals do it.