Jumping could be the key to staying healthy as we age
Why jumping is good for your bones
- Jumping is recommended by experts as a beneficial exercise for strengthening bones and combating the natural weakening that occurs with age.
- Research indicates that high-impact jumping can increase bone density, with a 2014 study showing 10 daily jumps made twice a day over four months significantly improved hip bone density in women aged 25-50.
- Women are particularly susceptible to bone density loss due to smaller bones and a sharp decline in estrogen post-menopause, increasing their risk of osteoporosis.
- Experts suggest that performing a few dozen jumps a couple of times a week can contribute to improved bone health, with benefits potentially visible within six months.
- Caution is advised for individuals with osteoporosis or joint pain, who should consider resistance training first, and effective jumps include explosive, side-to-side, or box jumps, rather than skipping rope.