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Is it really necessary to spend a couple of hundred dollars or more on a high quality rebounder? Why can’t I just get a cheap one at the local sports store, or at Wal-Mart, or online?
Well, you can if you like, but it probably won’t last very long or give you a very satisfactory rebounding experience. Rebounders have evolved over the last few decades and current high quality models employ a wide range of design features and upgrades that are still missing from cheaper units, including a good mat, large-bellied springs, the use of pins instead of connecting the mat directly to the frame, folding capability, and so on.
The fact is, you can't rebound without a rebounder, and a poorly made rebounder will neither last nor give you the experience you are looking for. Think of a rebounder of being an investment on the order of an inexpensive bicycle. If you really use it a few times a week, and you really experience a variety of simple exercise-related health benefits (no less other potential psychological and spiritual benefits), isn't it worth it?
What’s the difference between a string-based rebounder and a spring-based rebounder?
Most rebounders today are made with metal springs. At least one company (from Europe) has now put out a top-of-the-line string- or bungy-based rebounder that gives an outstandingly enjoyable bounce. If you want the best that you can get (to my knowledge), then one of these European-made string-bounders is it. On the bottom-end, Wal-Mart had been selling a $20 band-based rebounder which was recently in the news for being recalled.
Again, though, most of the rebounders you are likely to see or possibly by for the next few years will still be spring-based, but in the future I expect the string- or bungy-based units to make strong inroads because they are so nice to bounce on, and because it is far, far easier to deal with the bungy cords than it is to deal with springs. When springs need to be replaced, it can be a true nightmare. (And never, ever, buy a spring-based unit that doesn’t have a spring cover on it. I have seen shrapnel come flying out of a poorly made spring-based rebounder that was advertised as not needing a cover because the springs could not possibly break. Not!
How much will I need to spend for a new unit?
If you are buying a rebounder for less than $100, it is almost certain that it is not a high quality unit. On the top end, rebounders can cost up to several hundred dollars. The string-bounders described above cost over $600 delivered if you live in the United States. Most high quality rebounders cost around $200 to $250 delivered. The rebounders sold by JB Berns in association with his Urban Rebounding™ program are sold for less than this, and in some ways they are an excellent value, although they do not have a Permatron® mat and there is some confusion out there as to the difference between his “home, but gym quality” units and the ones he actually uses in health clubs.
Is it necessary to have a Permatron® mat?
Permatron®, a DuPont product, has been the gold standard against which all other rebounder mats have been measured for quite some time because of its resiliency, durability, smooth feel, and excellent bounce characteristics. However, some rebound manufacturers prefer to not use Permatron® mats because it is thought that in sweaty gym environments they are more slippery (as Permatron® mats are “calendered”). I strongly recommend bouncing without shoes or socks – for a number of reasons – and my belief is that most people who bounce barefoot will find Permatron® mats preferable.
Do I need any other equipment?
Not really. If you want to use light hand weights while rebounding, make sure you have comfortable ones such as neoprene covered dumbbells or “sand bags” specifically designed for use while rebounding. Always have water available, and you might want to have a clock that you can see. If you like rebounding to music or TV, make sure you are prepared ahead of time.
What kind of clothing should I wear?
Clothing that binds, is too tight, or that otherwise prevents or constricts your movement in any way should be avoided. Generally, wear loose, comfortable, clothing. If it is warm enough (outdoors or indoors), you can bounce in shorts and short sleeves, and some people may prefer to bounce shirtless. Many women prefer to wear a sports bra or another supporting garment on top, and some men like to wear support below. If you are bouncing outdoors, then you might want long pants and even a sweatshirt, depending on the weather.
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