How to choose a rebounder suitable for you

At La Crisalida Retreats we love to rebound regularly! Rebounding is bouncing on your own mini trampoline.  It is a fabulous form of exercise that has been shown to have a multitude of health benefits including detoxing the body and burning some calories. You can find out more about the health benefits of rebounding and help with designing your own rebounding routine in our recent article: Bounce! The health benefits of rebounding.

If you are looking to purchase a rebounder any time soon, this article provides information on some of the basic things you need to be aware of before deciding. We discuss some of the pros and cons of three chosen rebounders that are available to purchase.

Cost

The variation in price in the marketplace for a rebounder is surprisingly high. You can expect to pay anything from €50 (approx. £40) to 750€ (approx. £650) depending upon the design, brand and quality of your rebounder.

Design

There are two basic designs for a rebounder. The first (generally cheaper) is the spring-loaded type, which uses metal springs to attach the canvas of the trampoline to the frame. The second type of rebounder uses a more sophisticated elasticated mechanism instead of the spring. The spring-based rebounders typically do not last as long because the springs are prone to failing (typically after a few months of use).

One other key design feature is that some rebounders include the ability to fold/collapse into a smaller space for easy storage or transportation. A folding design of rebounder will be a more important consideration if you have little space at home to store the piece of equipment. Sometimes foldable rebounders can take some time to “fold up” and require you to unscrew legs etc – so may not be appropriate if you intend to rebound on a regular basis.

Rebounder features

• Stability Bars

Some rebounders have something called a “stability bar”. These stability bars are useful for anyone worried about their balance or who wants to take bigger leaps up into the air. (Keeping hold of the bar will help to ensure you don’t inadvertently come off the rebounder). Most stability bars are detachable and so once you get used to using the rebounder you can discard. An addition of a stability bar doesn’t generally add too much to the cost.

• Weight of rebounder

The amount a rebounder weighs can vary. If you think you will be transporting your rebounder between venues then you will probably prefer something lighter.

• Size of bouncing area

The size of bouncing area is something that varies between rebounders too (typically varying from 65cm to 75cm).  At the retreat our rebounders have a bouncing area diameter of 70cm, which is more than adequate. In general, if you are looking for comfort then chose a rebounder with a bigger surface area.

• Resistance level

The resistance level is something that depends upon the strength of the springs (or elastic) securing the material to the frame, plus the material itself. In general, the more springs the rebounder has the more likely is that you will have a firm resistance when bouncing. In some ways the level of firmness of your rebounder is a personal choice, although I would generally recommend the firmer the better (particularly if you weigh more than 15 stones).

• Noise level

As most people who rebound do it to music, the noise level of the trampoline is less important. However, if keeping the noise level down from your trampoline is one of your top priorities then you may want to consider a high-end version with elastic rather than springs.

• Maximum weight limit

Most rebounders will have a recommended maximum weight limit. The basic rebounders tend to have a weight limit of around 100kg (around 16 stones) and the more expensive rebounders have no weight limit.

Other things to consider

You will find that the main problem you are likely to experience with your rebounder is the possibility of a broken spring. If you want to avoid replacing your entire rebounder when this happens, we suggest before you buy you check to see if replacement springs (and other parts) are easily available.

If you are new to rebounding at home, you will need to consider where you will do your bouncing. Wherever you choose will need to have a flat surface and plenty of head room for your moves. Carpets are perfect as they absorb the impact well. At the retreat we use protective gym mats to place the rebounders onto the floor, mainly to help stop the rebounder from jumping around on a hard surface but also to help protect the floor.

You will also need to consider what to wear during your rebounding sessions. This will typically depend on how vigorous you intend to work out and for how long. Comfortable clothing and a sports bra for women are generally recommended.

Three rebounder suggestions for you

Having done our research, we have picked three possible purchases that we would be happy to recommend. They are as follows:

Option 1:  Budget Rebounder – V-fit GE2 (external link to Amazon)

Comments: This spring-based rebounder is basic in construction and should be perfect for someone just starting out on their rebounding journey. The price is fabulous and the brand is well established (so you should be able to easily get replacement springs). Note that as this product is not a foldable rebounder, we would not suggest this product if the ability to fold and store the rebounder is going to be important to you (we would recommend Option 2 instead).

Option 2:  Mid-Priced Rebounder – SportPlus rebounder (external link to Amazon)

Comments:  The SportPlus rebounder uses a bungee system rather than springs which can make the session a lot quieter. It comes with an optional stability bar – which means it can be used easily by children and those who have issues with their balance.

Option 3:  High-End Rebounder – MaXimus Life FIT BOUNCE PRO II (external link to Amazon)

Comments:  This rebounder uses an elasticated system (not springs), which gives a smoother and quieter trampolining session. It can take a weight of up to 23 stones (150 kg) and is designed to last.

Conclusion

We do hope that you have enjoyed learning about what makes a good rebounder and that you like the three options we have gone for in the marketplace.  All the best with your rebounding journey!

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