Pilates has long been celebrated for its ability to strengthen, stretch, and stabilise the body. But did you know you can elevate your practice by adding a jumpboard to your routine? Whether you're a seasoned Pilates goer or someone new Pilates, incorporating some jumping into your classes adds a fresh, dynamic twist with a range of benefits for your overall health and fitness. 

At Return Pilates, we make it easy for everyone to enjoy the advantages of the jumpboard, offering classes tailored to both beginners and intermediate participants. But what exactly is the jumpboard? And why is it such a valuable tool? Let's explore…

What Is a Jumpboard? 

The jumpboard is a flat, padded platform that attaches to the end of your Reformer machine. Acting as a spring-loaded surface, it allows you to perform low-impact jumps while maintaining all the benefits of traditional Pilates. It’s like exercising on a mini trampoline but with more control and precision. 

The soft resistance provided by the Reformer makes jumping exercises gentler on the joints than traditional cardio activities, such as running or skipping. This makes the jumpboard suitable for everyone, from those wanting to rev up their workouts, to those recovering from an injury or wanting a kinder alternative to high-impact cardio. 

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The Benefits of the Jumpboard 

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1. It’s a Great Cardiovascular Workout 

While Pilates is often associated with movements that are slow and controlled, the jumpboard can turn up the intensity a notch, potentially making you break a sweat. The repetitive jumping action elevates your heart rate, turning class into an effective cardiovascular workout. This is perfect for those who want to improve their endurance or burn a few more calories without putting undue pressure on their joints.

2. Boosts Coordination and Balance 

When using the jumpboard, your brain and body have to work in sync to perform each jump with control and accuracy. You’re not just jumping aimlessly, you’re practising landing in a way that helps to strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints (eg. around your ankles and knees). 

The jumpboard requires you to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, which helps refine your coordination and proprioception (your sense of body awareness). With regular practice, this leads to improved balance that can benefit both your workouts and your everyday life. Jumping also encourages you to engage your core!

3. Improves Joint Health and Mobility 

Low-impact exercise is one of the best ways to keep your joints healthy and mobile, and the jumpboard is a fantastic example of this in action. The Reformer springs absorb the impact of each jump, protecting your knees, hips, and ankles while still giving these key joint areas a chance to move fluidly and freely. 

This type of movement stimulates the production of synovial fluid, which nourishes and lubricates the joints, reducing stiffness and discomfort. If you're someone who avoids high-impact activities because of joint pain, the jumpboard offers a safe and enjoyable alternative. 

4. Helps Build Bone Density 

Strengthening your bones is important for long-term health, especially as we age and our bone density naturally begins to decline. The gentle yet repetitive impact of the jumpboard promotes bone-loading - a process that helps stimulate bone growth and increase density. 

This can be very beneficial for women, particularly those who are going through menopause or post menopause, those who are at higher risk of osteoporosis, or for anyone looking to strengthen their bones.

Why Choose Jumpboard Pilates at Return Pilates? 

At Return Pilates, we believe in empowering everyone, regardless of experience or fitness level. We want everyone to enjoy the rewards that Pilates, its equipment and techniques, like the jumpboard, have to offer. This is why we provide two distinct levels of jumpboard classes to meet the needs of all our members. 

Foundation Plus Jump

If you're relatively new to Pilates or hesitant about trying the jumpboard, our Foundation Plus Jump classes are an excellent starting point. Our expert instructors will guide you through every movement with care, focusing on proper form and gradual progression. These classes are designed to be fun and accessible while introducing jumping in a low-intensity, controlled environment. We strongly recommend that you participate in at least five Foundation classes before participating in this jump class. 

Progression Plus Jump

For more experienced Pilates goers ready to take their classes to the next level, our Progression Plus Jump classes turn up the intensity with more challenging sequences. Expect a combination of high-energy cardio, precise strength work, and exercises that challenge your coordination. 

A Community That Supports Your Goals 

Joining a jumpboard class at Return Pilates isn’t just about improving your physical fitness, it’s about becoming part of a community that celebrates progress and supports your goals. Our friendly instructors and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to enjoy every session and keep coming back for more. 

Many of our clients say that beyond the health benefits, it's the sense of community and inclusivity they find in our studio that motivates them most. Sharing laughs, challenges, and personal victories with like-minded individuals is just one more reason to give the jumpboard a go! 

Take the Next Step Towards Better Health 

If you’re looking for an exciting way to switch up your fitness routine while improving your strength, coordination, and overall health, the jumpboard is the perfect addition! Spaces for our jumpboard classes fill up quickly, so don’t wait! Check out our timetable now. 

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