What Is a Pilates Jumpboard Class? And 5 Reasons to Take One
Whether you’re a Pilates jumpboard novice or a reformer pro, adding a jump board class to your weekly routine has its perks. The jump board is an attachment that converts a reformer into a horizontal jumping machine. It attaches to the front of the reformer where the foot bar is located. Lying with your back on the carriage, you can adjust the spring tension and jump on the board as if it were the floor. The spring tension removes gravity from the equation, giving the sensation of jumping on the moon. Give it a try to experience the exhilaration!
Here Are Five Reasons to Take Pilates Reformer Classes:
5. Get Your Heart Rate Up While Lying Down
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Jump board classes are good for your heart, your muscles, and your sleep position. In a Pilates jumpboard workout, the heart rate spikes and stays up for several minutes–meaning you burn calories and build cardiovascular endurance. Plus, lying down during the workout helps your spine stay aligned.
But the benefits don’t end there. Jump board exercises also strengthen the body’s bones and are used for rehabilitation after injuries or for individuals with arthritis. And if you’re looking for a workout that won’t exacerbate knee or ankle problems, jumpboard exercises may offer some relief.
Don’t let pain or injury keep you from getting a great workout. Join a jump board class and experience all the benefits of this low-impact, high-energy exercise.
4. Enjoy Low Impact Benefits
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Consider this: the reformer defies gravity! With low-impact jumps, it’s gentler than a trampoline. And why is low-impact exercise good? It’s joint-friendly! So you keep your joints healthy and still reap the high-impact workout benefits. In fact, low-impact exercises stimulate healing by keeping the joints mobile and increasing strength. But if you have an injury, check with your doctor before signing up for a class.
Pilates jump board classes are low-impact yet help to increase metabolism (normally seen in high-intensity workouts). They boost your heart rate and convert ingested nutrients into energy. Plus, the endorphins released upon exercising act as natural painkillers, reducing stress and depression.
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3. Get Abtastic
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Using the jump board not only burns mega calories but also provides an excellent abdominal workout. Most people assume that the harder the spring, the more challenging the exercise. However, this isn’t always true and is exercise-dependent. In a Pilates jump board class, heavier springs work your legs more, while lighter springs engage your abs further. When you use a lighter spring setting, your abdominals work tirelessly to stabilize your pelvis and maintain a neutral spine. Remember to engage your abs by pulling in as you exhale with every jump, regardless of spring settings.
2. Get a Kick Out of Floating Form
Pilates jump board classes are the perfect choice to increase stamina and reduce fatigue. Though it may feel exhausting at first, with consistency, you’ll soon experience a boost in energy levels. Additionally, this class can improve coordination and help relieve tightness in lower backs, hips, and legs.
The feeling of jumping on the moon is an added bonus. With less pressure on the jump board, there’s ample hang time to focus on your form midair. Proper alignment is essential, and Pilates jump board classes offer the perfect opportunity to hone your technique.
Beginners who fear the reformer can find solace in a Pilates jump board class. With most of the work done on your back, you can take the time to focus on your technique and form, all while getting an excellent workout.
Why not try a Pilates jump board class and feel the difference in both your mind and body?
1. Burn Calories Like a Pyromaniac
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Jump in Pilates primarily involves your legs and the largest muscle group in your body, making it an excellent cardiovascular addition. Back-to-back rebounding will amp up your calorie burn, while stimulating circulation, which drives blood, oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. Improving your blood flow can reduce your risk of heart disease. Discuss how the jump board and other Pilates equipment can benefit your workouts with your instructor. If you’re just starting out, try a class to see if it’s the right fit for you. Poor circulation manifests as tingling, numbness, throbbing, and muscle cramps. Ignoring these symptoms may lead to reduced blood flow in your arteries and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Learning about Pilates jump board classes, where blood vessels widen and become more flexible, will add to your overall health and wellness regimen.
