Does Rebounding Build Bone Density?

What Two Research Studies Actually Found
Study 1 of 2
Mini-Trampoline as an Exercise Intervention for Postmenopausal Women
Fricke et al., 2023 · Journal of Women's Health Physical Therapy · New Zealand
37
Participants
12
Weeks
3x
Per Week
Bone Density (Calcaneus) Increased post-intervention, but benefits diminished at 3-month follow-up
Stress Urinary Incontinence Scores improved, reaching significance at 3-month follow-up
Study Limitations
Small sample: only 8 in the control group
Self-assigned groups, not randomized
Bone density measured only at the heel (calcaneus), not hip or spine
No group doing the same exercises on the floor for comparison
Study 2 of 2
Effectiveness of a Mini-Trampoline on Bone Health and Functional Mobility
Posch et al., 2019 · Clinical Interventions in Aging · Austria
40
Participants
12
Weeks
2x
Per Week
Balance & Mobility Significant improvements in static balance and functional mobility
Strength & Gait Upper and lower limb strength improved; gait speed increased
Fear of Falling Meaningful reduction reported by the exercise group
Bone Density (Hip & Spine) No significant improvement at the lumbar spine or femoral neck
Study Limitations
No third group performing the same exercises on the floor
Cannot determine if the rebounder or the exercises caused the improvements
Control group maintained normal lifestyle (no exercise comparison)

Neither Study Proved That Rebounding Builds Bone

Both studies had positive findings for balance, mobility, and functional fitness. But neither adequately demonstrated that the rebounder itself increased bone density. Without a comparison group performing the same exercises on a firm surface, we cannot say whether the improvements came from the exercises or the rebounder.

MELIOGUIDE · Evidence-Based Bone Health