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Rebounding Exercise Found More Effective Than Jogging, Study Suggests
A recent study conducted by Duke Health and published in the journal Diabetologia on July 15 has found that rebounding exercises may be more effective than jogging for certain health benefits. The randomized, six-month study involved 150 participants with pre-diabetes, focusing on moderate-intensity exercises modeled after the Diabetes Prevention Program.
Understanding Rebounding and Jogging
Rebounding is a low-intensity, joint-friendly exercise that takes place on a mini-trampoline, commonly known as a rebounder. This form of exercise is known for being gentle on the joints while still supporting heart health. It is also recognized for its ability to improve balance and coordination, as well as enhance mental well-being and mood.
Jogging, on the other hand, is a widely practiced aerobic activity that improves aerobic capacity and stamina. However, it is often associated with higher impact on the joints, which can be a concern for individuals with joint sensitivities or injuries.
Incline Walking as an Alternative
The study also considered incline walking as a viable alternative to both rebounding and jogging. Incline walking, which can be performed on a treadmill or outdoors, increases cardiovascular endurance and strength. It engages more muscle groups compared to flat jogging and can be easier on the joints. Moreover, incline walking has the potential to enhance lower body strength.
Both rebounding and incline walking can be tailored to individual fitness levels, making them accessible options for a wide range of participants. These exercises can improve overall fitness levels, with incline walking particularly noted for its muscle engagement and strength-building benefits.
Study Findings and Implications
The study from Duke Health highlighted that moderate-intensity exercise, such as rebounding, tends to burn more fat than glucose. This finding suggests that rebounding could be a more effective exercise option for individuals seeking to manage or prevent pre-diabetes. The intervention modeled on the Diabetes Prevention Program emphasized the benefits of such moderate-intensity activities.
Despite the advantages of jogging in terms of aerobic capacity improvement, the study indicates that rebounding offers comparable, if not superior, benefits in terms of cardiovascular health and joint preservation. These findings may influence exercise recommendations for individuals with pre-diabetes or those looking for low-impact exercise options.
Conclusion
The study's results suggest that rebounding may provide several benefits over jogging, particularly for those seeking joint-friendly, low-impact exercises. While jogging remains a popular choice for improving aerobic capacity, alternatives like rebounding and incline walking offer significant advantages in terms of joint preservation and overall health benefits.
Rebounding and incline walking present effective, low-impact alternatives to jogging, with potential benefits for cardiovascular health and joint preservation. As exercise regimens continue to evolve, these findings may guide individuals in selecting the most suitable activities for their fitness and health goals.