This health-prevention study shows how regular exercise on the bellicon® mini-trampoline affects bone density and the consequences of osteoporosis – namely, fracture risk – in people at risk of osteoporosis. In addition, the effect on cardiopulmonary performance was examined. Men and women aged 55 to 75 with reduced bone density took part in the study. Medication for treating and preventing osteoporosis was paused during the study, while intake of calcium supplements and vitamin D was continued.
Bone density was measured beforehand using a CT scan in the area of the lumbar vertebrae and thigh bone. This measurement was taken before and after the study, and the results were then compared. Cardiopulmonary performance was also measured through tests before and after the study. The participants’ balance was also examined using a number of neurological tests and a questionnaire. Fitness and pain perception in the (lower) back and joints were recorded via open questions.
Each participant was given a bellicon® trampoline for home use. After a joint introduction to correct use, participants had to bounce on the bellicon® for 3 x 10 minutes daily and keep a diary of it. At the start, the bellicons were fitted with 2 side supports for safety, but these were no longer needed after a few days. The study lasted 12 weeks.
- Bone density had not decreased after the study, even though participants had stopped taking their medication for treating their osteoporosis.
- Balance had improved significantly in all participants.
- Physical performance had also clearly improved compared to the baseline value at the start of the study.
- Participants with back and joint complaints experienced less pain.
- There were also several individual observations confirming the positive effects of training on the bellicon®: for instance, one person reported a clear improvement in knee ligament stability, another an improvement in pelvic floor muscles. Some participants with lymphedema noticed an improvement in the legs and hands.
Bouncing on the bellicon® mini-trampoline proves to be a suitable method to prevent the decline in bone density and any resulting complaints. At the same time, training on the bellicon® improves balance, thereby reducing the tendency to fall. Training on the bellicon® also reduces pain and improves cardiopulmonary function.
Link to the article: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BsvkdHIZVQE
Dr. Joachim Schulz, specialist in general medicine and naturopathy