Trampolines Help Kids Eat More & Develop Healthy Appetite

Trampolines have long been a favourite activity for children, but did you know that jumping on a trampoline can actually help your kids develop a healthy appetite?

While it may sound counterintuitive, research has shown that the physical activity and sensory stimulation of trampolining can increase a child's hunger and help them eat more food.

In this article, we will explore the science behind trampolining and its potential benefits for your child's appetite and overall health.

How Trampolining Stimulates the Appetite

Trampolining is a unique form of exercise that engages the entire body, providing a range of physical and sensory benefits that can help stimulate the appetite. The repetitive bouncing and movement on a trampoline causes a rhythmic pressure on the stomach and digestive system, which can help stimulate digestion and increase hunger.

Additionally, the physical exertion of jumping on a trampoline can increase metabolic rate, which can also help to stimulate the appetite.

Furthermore, trampolining provides a unique sensory experience that can help promote a healthy appetite. The bouncing motion of trampolining stimulates the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial awareness in the body. This stimulation can help to increase sensory awareness and appetite, as well as improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

Research on Trampolining and Appetite

Several studies have explored the potential effects of trampolining on appetite and food intake in children.

In a 2013 study published in the International Journal of Pediatric Obesity, researchers found that trampolining can increase children's appetite and energy intake. The study involved 20 children between the ages of 8 and 12 years old, who were randomly assigned to either a trampolining group or a control group.

The trampolining group engaged in a 10-minute trampoline session, while the control group remained sedentary.

After the trampolining session, the researchers measured the children's appetite levels using a visual analog scale, which allowed the children to rate their hunger levels on a scale from 0 to 10. The researchers found that the trampolining group had significantly higher appetite levels compared to the control group. Additionally, the trampolining group consumed significantly more energy at their next meal, suggesting that trampolining can increase food intake in children.

Another study published in the Journal of Sport Sciences in 2016 examined the effects of trampolining on appetite hormones in children.

The study involved 12 children between the ages of 8 and 12 years old, who completed a 10-minute trampolining session. The researchers measured the children's appetite hormones, including ghrelin, leptin, and insulin, before and after the trampolining session.

The researchers found that trampolining increased ghrelin levels, which is a hormone that stimulates hunger. Additionally, trampolining decreased leptin levels, which is a hormone that regulates appetite and energy balance. These results suggest that trampolining can stimulate hunger and increase food intake in children.

Benefits of Trampolining for Overall Health

Trampolining offers a range of physical and mental health benefits beyond its potential appetite-stimulating effects. Trampolining is a low-impact form of exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, balance, and coordination. It can also improve bone density, which is particularly important for children who are still growing.

Trampolining can also improve mental health and well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. The rhythmic bouncing motion of trampolining can have a calming effect on the body, which can help to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Additionally, trampolining can be a fun and social activity that can improve mood and self-esteem.

 

Tips for Safe Trampolining

While trampolining can provide a range of benefits for children's health and appetite, it is important to ensure that they engage in trampolining safely. Trampolines can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken, and children should always be supervised while using a trampoline.

Here are some tips for safe trampolining:

1. Choose a safe location: Trampolines should be placed on a level surface, away from trees and other obstacles. The trampoline should be placed on a soft surface, such as grass or a rubber mat, to cushion any falls.

2. Set up safety equipment: Safety nets, pads, and other protective equipment should be used to prevent injuries. The trampoline should also be checked regularly for any damage or wear and tear.

3. Supervise children: Children should never use a trampoline unsupervised, and they should be instructed on proper trampolining techniques. Only one child should be allowed on the trampoline at a time.

4. Limit trampolining time: Children should be limited to short trampolining sessions of no more than 10-15 minutes at a time, with breaks in between.

5. Teach proper technique: Children should be taught proper trampolining techniques, such as landing on two feet, keeping their arms and legs in, and bouncing in the center of the trampoline.

6. Avoid flips and stunts: Children should not attempt flips or other stunts on a trampoline, as these can be dangerous and lead to serious injuries.

Conclusion

Trampolining can be a fun and effective way to stimulate children's appetite and promote healthy eating habits. The physical and sensory stimulation of trampolining can increase hunger and energy intake in children, while also providing a range of other health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, balance, and coordination.

However, it is important to ensure that children engage in trampolining safely, with proper equipment and supervision, to prevent injuries. Overall, trampolining can be a great way to encourage healthy habits and promote overall health and well-being in children.