jump for health: why you should include jumping in your workouts

When thinking about Pilates, the first thing that comes to mind would not necessarily be cardio, but rather lengthening, strengthening and stabilizing. If you are looking to incorporate more cardio into your weekly fitness regimen, Pilates Reformer Jumpboard classes are an efficient way to do so. 

Pilates jumpboard classes provide the same benefits as other styles of Reformer classes and also an extra layer of challenge and proprioception. It maintains the low-impact integrity of the Pilates method while delivering high-energy cardio. 

​The Pilates jumpboard is a padded plate that offers the aerobic benefits of jumping in a way that still protects the knees, back and spine from the impact of landing on a solid surface. A biomechanically accurate ‘standing’ position is recreated when lying down on the reformer, allowing for proper alignment while jumping. A Jumpboard class at Longevity includes the Cardio Cloud, an accessory attached to the jumpboard which creates a softer jumping surface. The extra non-slip padding promotes safe jumping by absorbing the shock of landing, making it a viable option for those with sensitive feet or lower body limitations. The cardio-based exercises performed during a Jumpboard class help burn extra calories and enhance muscular endurance over time.

Similar to other styles of Pilates reformer exercise, utilizing a jumpboard improves mobility and range of motion, strength, flexibility and coordination. Spring weight variations, along with tempo, aid in building body awareness and creating a strong mind-body connection. Recruiting and activating the core goes a long way in keeping the pelvis and spine stable throughout jumping patterns. 

Our lymphatic system is a network of tissues, vessels and organs, serving as an extension of the immune system and aiding in the production of white blood cells, removal of toxins and cellular waste and maintenance of fluids in the body. The unobstructed movement of lymph, the fluid that flows through the lymphatic system, is crucial for proper drainage and overall health. An effective way to improve lymphatic drainage is jumping, as it stimulates the one-way valves of the lymphatic system through upward movement. 

Like regular cardiovascular exercise, Pilates jumpboard classes increase your heart rate through bursts of intervals as short as a few minutes- all while working to strengthen the heart, improve blood circulation and lung capacity. 

Overall benefits of exercise using the Pilates jumpboard

• Easy on the joints
• Improves flexibility and mobility 
• Builds coordination and body awareness 
• Stimulates lymphatic health and drainage 
• Increases bone density and muscular endurance 
• Enhances blood circulation 
• Attributes to better cardiovascular health

Jumping while lying on a reformer sets your body up for proper alignment and mechanics when jumping in one of our Sweat Therapy, TRX or FIT classes. These classes may include exercises such as jump squats, star jumps, burpees, high knees and jumping jacks.

If working out on your own, jumping exercises are great in a Tabata format.

​Perform the following Tabata workout 4 times, 20 seconds on and 10 seconds off:

• Jump squats and plank hold 
• Box jumps and push-ups 
• Burpees and TRX inverted rows

A benefit unique to a jumpboard class at Longevity Fitness? Better mood. With upbeat playlists, motivating instructors and jumps for joy, we are confident you will leave class feeling lighter both mentally and physically. We currently offer Pilates Reformer Jumpboard classes on Mondays at 5:45am, Tuesdays at 4:30pm, Wednesdays at 12:30pm, Thursdays at 4:30pm (new class!) and Fridays at 10:30am. 

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