What is Jumpboard Pilates?
A Jumpboard is a padded board that sits at the foot of the Reformer, replacing the foot bar. You’re essentially lying down whilst jumping!
What are the benefits of Jumpboard Pilates?
Jumpboard is a fabulous substitute for any high impact form of exercise. Whether that be running, HIIT etc. The springs are designed to give you a fraction of the impact you would normally receive standing up, therefore, it is safer on the joints whilst still working the muscles in a controlled way.
When we think of a workout we rarely think about the strength and mobility of our ankles and feet – Jumpboard to the rescue! Our poor ankles and feet are often overlooked but play a massive part in the health and well-being of the rest of our bodies. Jumpboard brings the focus to the lower extremities and teaches you how to articulate through the foot and stabilise the ankles safely and efficiently. You’ll then have the correct biomechanics for when you walk, run and for other daily activities.
Even though Jumpboard is mainly a lower body workout, it also challenges and strengthens the core as you are mostly lying down or on your side – you must hold the weight of your legs as they extend when pushing off the board. You’re essentially holding variations of the 100’s position every time you leave the Jumpboard!
Another added bonus is that Jumpboard is fantastic for the cardiovascular system! Not only are you working your muscles against resistance, but because of the faster pace of movement, your heart rate increases too. Jumpboard is a great way to practice correct breath as you learn to exhale when your body needs to exert the most power whilst using core control with a faster heart rate. This technique can then be practised in other forms of high intensity workouts.
Is Jumpboard good for injuries?
Definitely! However, not for acute or serious on-going injuries – especially lower leg and back issues as there is a demand on the core to support the spine while you jump.
However, Jumpboard is a fabulous rehab application for anyone returning back to exercise from any lower extremity injury. Always have a chat to your doctor or physio first and make sure you let the instructor know if you are returning from any injuries so they can make any appropriate modifications during the class.
Do you need previous experience on a Reformer?
Previous experience is a must! Especially as there are many moving parts on a reformer that you need to be aware of for safety reasons. Try to have at least a handful of regular reformer classes under your belt before trying a Jumpboard class. The regular reformer classes will also help you to understand how to properly engage your core and work on leg alignment which are both very important for a Jumpboard class.
What do I wear/bring to a Jumpboard class?
Even though a Jumpboard class is similar to a regular reformer class, there are some extra things to consider.
Grippy socks are an absolute must! As you are continually pushing off the Jumpboard, it’s important that you can do so with a bit of grip so you don’t slip! It also feels more secure when you land as you can feel the board better with grip under your feet.
Also think about the material of your clothes. There is a lot of jumping so there is a possibility that a pair of shiny leggings will slip and slide on the carriage as you jump, which isn’t comfortable and is also a safety hazard. Try to pick clothing that will hug your body and won’t be slippery when lying on the carriage.
Last but not least, bring a water bottle! As Jumpboard is a high intensity workout, you will need to keep your fluids up during the class so you stay hydrated and happy!
Happy jumping!
Interested in learning more about Jump board Pilates? Click here to read our previous blog.
Wanting to become a Pilates Instructor with PPF? Join our final instructor training for 2022! More information can be found here.
