Rebounders: Springs vs. Rubber Bands

Getting the best trampoline for your indoor exercise activities is an important step in staying fit and healthy. Trampolines can be categorized in many ways; this can be done by considering their shapes, sizes, and the purpose they are meant to serve. However, there are types of designs that can significantly affect your experience and the results you are likely to get in these categories.

Mini-trampolines (rebounders) can often be categorized into two distinct models, spring and rubber band trampolines. Each version of rebounder offers a specific set of benefits that allow them to work better in various situations. Overall, spring rebounders are often cheaper, provide a more strenuous workout, and are much noisier (see How to Stop Your Trampoline from Squeaking) than their elastic band cousins. Rubber band or bungee cord rebounders offer a firm bounce that is easier on the joints, often costs more, and is almost completely silent for situations where you need to exercise without disturbing others (see Best Mini-Trampoline for Upstairs Apartment).

Spring Rebounders

Spring trampolines perform similarly to a springless rebounder; however, their effectiveness and efficiency can vary depending on certain factors. Here are some unique features possessed by this trampoline and which in turn determines how effective a spring rebounder may be:

Materials

As the name suggests, spring trampolines (see BCAN 38″ Mini-Trampoline review) are designed with galvanized and rust-resistant springs that power every jump one takes while exercising. However, not all spring trampolines are made with rust-free springs; others have been with springs that can become brittle when exposed to unfavorable conditions. Their ability to resist or accumulate rust depends on how long they are likely to last.

Setup

Spring rebounders have a procedural setup process. During setup, carefully hook each spring from the net to the holes provided on the frame. Setting up the spring trampolines requires effort to pull each spring and prevent the jumping mat from sagging. If the mini-trampoline is set up correctly, a better jumping experience is had.

Quality of Bounce

The jumping experience is always different from one person to another. Some prefer firmer bounces while others prefer the bouncier trampolines. Spring rebounders often provide a bouncier jump that is more conducive to strenuous workouts (see how many calories rebounding workouts can burn).

Safety

Safety is an essential aspect that everyone should consider when choosing trampolines. Due to the hard metal of the spring mechanism, spring rebounders are more difficult to safety-proof. While they may give better bounce performance, users will need to deal with hazards such as breaking springs, pinched fingers, and hands/feet hitting the springs accidentally. Depending on the model, most spring rebounders include numerous safety features to combat these issues.

When to Use a Spring Rebounder

Picking the best trampoline will depend on the goals you want to achieve from the exercise. It is recommended to use the spring trampolines in the following instances:

• When you wish to have bouncier and more propelled jumps
• When you want less elasticity, these springs can offer you some great help.

Pros

They are more affordable.

Widely available

Offer elasticity

Cons

Can be low quality

Harsh on joints

Rubber Band (Bungee Cords) Rebounders

These are among the oldest rebounders to be introduced. They first came out as early as the 1970s, and they are made to connect the trampoline mat with the rim providing it with sturdy, silent, and flexible cords. The design generally adds more benefits to the trampoline jumper. The following are the unique features of rubber band rebounders:

Materials

They have been made with either bungee or elastic bands (see our Stamina 36″ Mini-Trampoline review), thus making them completely rust-free. This feature enables it to last long; however, some low-quality bands can break and require replacement. Although this does not make the end of its life, one can still use them even with broken cords, but replacement is always required.

Set up

The bungee cord trampolines require little setup as they normally come with the bands installed and adequately looped around the frame when you purchase them. It is crucial to choose the type with bands that can be replaced easily. Some bungee cord rebounders are notorious for difficulties in attaching the cords to the frames (see our Newan Mini Trampoline review). It is usually best to follow the instructions provided exactly and use the tools the company usually provides to make assembly easier.

Bounce Quality

These rebounders have more firm bounces than what spring trampolines provide. If you want to make your bounce more flexible with elastic bands, it can be achieved by extending the lines to be longer than their fixed length. Ensure that there is plenty of distance between the mat and the floor so higher bounces can be achieved.

Safety

The springless trampolines are safer than the spring rebounders, primarily due to more soft parts. There is less of a chance of experiencing pinched fingers or toes, regardless of the safety precautions in place. Moreover, these trampolines have been added with coverings on top of the bands that can be used as part of the jumping.

When to Use Rubber Band Rebounders

• When you want to offer protection and support to your joints
• For lymphatic system workouts
• When you are looking for a firm bounce
• When noise is a concern

Pros

They are quiet

They are more reliable.

Easy to maintain

Safe and effective

Cons

Relatively expensive

Conclusion

Your health and fitness are important aspects of life that should be paid attention to regularly. Daily exercises are an essential part of human life to maintain a healthy body. If you are thinking about using a mini-trampoline for exercise, ensure you have the kind that best suits your workouts. The goals you are planning to achieve should determine the type of trampoline you choose.

Spring and rubber band fitness trampolines each have different characteristics that allow them to work better under certain conditions. Spring trampolines often offer a more strenuous workout, while elastic bands are easier on the joints and bones. No matter your current situation, there is an exercise trampoline that will fit your workout perfectly.