We all know that kids today are getting fat and lazy. They spend countless hours watching TV, surfing the net and playing video games. Far too many are adolescent couch potatoes. And if you, as a parent, try to convince them to do something energetic, the answer is unlikely to be positive. The chances of getting them to the gym while their favorite TV show is on, or when a friend wants to chat online, are about zero. You need to find a way they can get the exercise they need and have some fun doing it, without impacting too much on their lifestyle.
This is where a mini trampoline can be a great investment. A mini trampoline, or rebound trampoline, is easy to use and can be set up almost anywhere in the house. Nearly every kid has gone through the stage of jumping on the bed or the couch, and a mini trampoline can recreate that fun experience without ruining the furniture or falling off the bed.
Their favorite TV show is on? No problem, jump on the mini trampoline in front of the television. Involved in an online chat? Have a few bounces when you're waiting for someone to reply. And when it's not in use, most mini trampolines can be stowed away in a cupboard or under the bed.
By the way, don't think a mini trampoline should only be for the kids - it can be great for your health too. You can do your own mini trampoline workouts to help improve your cardiac fitness. Depending on the type of workout you do, you can focus on weight loss, cardiac fitness or strength training. The hardest part will be finding a time to have a turn!
Here are some of the ways that every member of your family can benefit from a mini trampoline:
- improves circulation
- low impact exercise, so safer for knees and ankles
- burns more calories than jogging
- strengthens legs and thighs
- good for coordination and balance
- great cardio workout
- it's great fun!!
When you're choosing a mini trampoline, make sure you find one with six legs. This means it will be a lot more stable than a four-legged model, and it's worth paying a few extra dollars for that stability. You can also buy models with a stabilizer bar if you need some extra stability.
The important thing is to get started - your health and fitness will thank you - and so will your kids!
