Bounce, baby, bounce
Make like a kid again and bounce your booty off. Known in fitness circles as ‘rebounders’, mini trampolines are just the bomb!
What and why? Rebounding is a low-impact exercise that’s gentle on knees and joints; it helps improve cardio health while working all the major muscle groups. Gentle bouncing also stimulates the body’s lymph system, which helps improve immunity.
Look for a rebounder with a good-quality mat that offers a soft, resilient bounce for minimal jarring, and make sure it has a safety cover for the springs. There are also models that include stability handlebars. Others have folding legs for tucking away when not in use or to improve portability, and many come with instructional DVDs.
Where and how much? You can purchase a rebounder from sports stores or online exercise equipment retailers. Prices vary depending on quality and start at around $70. Visit reboundoz.com.au or rebelsport.com.au
Resistance is not futile
Also referred to as fitness bands, resistance tubes, or stretch bands, resistance bands help you gain the benefits of weight training without having to use weights. Along with increasing muscle and core strength (important for improving overall wellbeing), they can also help improve your coordination and balance.
What and why? Made from strong, thin rubber, resistance bands are available in light, medium or heavy tensions. Some come with padded handles (we recommend these) or in a continuous loop style. They’re incredibly versatile, inexpensive and awesomely portable, which means you have no excuse not to take one with you everywhere.
Where and how much? Available wherever exercise equipment is sold (Target has a basic band for $10.99). Check out fightforfitness.com.au for a wide variety of styles and accessories, including door anchors, ankle straps and much more.
Skip to it
Skipping rope is not just child’s play – it’s a recognised international sport. It provides a total body workout that’s good for weight loss, heart health, strong bones, coordination and just plain having fun. So grab a rope and get moving!
Where and how much? You can buy a skipping rope for next to nothing from toy stores, or you can invest in a fancy state-of-the-art adjustable rope with weighted handles that’s designed for specific speeds and abilities. Available wherever exercise gear is sold or visit againfaster.com.au for more options.
