Bouncing to a Healthier Child! Part 2

We've already learned that jumping on the trampoline:

• Improves Balance and Coordination
• Stimulates the Lymphatic System
• Aids in the Development of Motor Skills

See full article here. 

Since that was a Part 1, I didn't want to leave you hanging too long for Part 2. The benefits are simply spectacular. So many reasons to sign your children up for trampoline, gymnastics or any movement rich class! Especially for the parents who don't want to be competitive with sports just yet, if ever, sign them up knowing you are aiding in your children's health and development. 

• Brain Development - Did you know it aids in brain development not just motor skills? Physical movement is essential for the building of neurons in the brain and throughout the entire body. It helps develop the part of the child's brain that is critical for learning. If movement does not happen, especially at an early age, then neurological development is thwarted. This leads to a host of problems from learning disorders to behavioral problems.

• Excessive television or video games can severely effect brain development. Think about the position of your head or your child's head while viewing t.v. or playing video games. It's pretty locked in one position, right? Remember, movement is NECESSARY for successful development.  

• Helps with Constipation  - Isn't that wonderful news? I had a constipated kid and it is pretty painful watching your little one cry while struggling to make a BM. Bouncing exercises even the very small muscles located throughout the body that are often ignored through conventional exercises, which often focus on larger athletic muscles.  The bouncing movement stimulates circulation in the digestive tract, thus helping with bowel movements.

• Improves Vision and Rhythm - Jumping requires that you keep your balance, while focusing on your surroundings. This helps to establish and improve depth, distance and other types of visual perception. Vision benefits are gained from rebounding by relating the objects around you to the space which you are occupying as you bounce up and down. One of the characteristics of people who suffer from insufficient vision is the lack of rhythm. Rebounding gives rhythm to the brain from the systematic bouncing. It helps develop visual coordination. With the greater circulation stimulated from rebounding, you will have more energy for vision needs. 

It also helps warm you up in this cold weather! So, I'm off to go bounce! Have a fabulous day!

-Coach Kelly