Bouncing Benefits Of The Vestibular System

There are many benefits to bouncing on a trampoline. One that has been well known in the therapeutic world is the vestibular system. This is important to highlight because rebounding as a classroom intervention could have a huge impact.

What is the vestibular system? According to Wikipedia, the vestibular systemis the sensory system that provides the leading contribution to the sense of balance and spatial orientation for the purpose of coordinating movement with balance. The vestibular system is a collection of structures in your inner ear that provides you with your sense of balance and an awareness of your spatial orientation. (For more detailed information, check out Sarah Phenix's Lesson on The Vestibular System available on Study.com)

Why is this system so important and what does it have to do with bouncing? The vestibular system helps our body know where we are spatially-meaning, are we upside down or right side up. It helps us to balance. It also helps us know if we are in motion or standing still. When you bounce up and down, it stimulates the vestibular system that is considered straight line vestibular stimulation. The Motor Story; Inclusive Resource on Sensorimotor Child Development for Parents and Teachers.

According to Angie Voss, OTR; A Sensory Life!, Bouncing, jumping, and rebounding has numerous benefits including:

• Improves core strength
• Movement helps the auditory system process
• Supports attention to task and cognition
• Supports visual processing and visual motor development

Based on the research, it would make sense for every classroom to have a rebounder located in their room for students to use as needed. With proper instruction and classroom management, students can easily self-monitor using the rebounder. A great model for classrooms is the JumpSport Fitness Trampoline 370i. This rebounder has a petal skirt that covers the bungee cords, adding additional bouncing space. And, this model comes with a handlebar. The height is adjustable and relatively easy to take off if you don’t want it on. However, in the classroom setting, the handle bar is a great benefit for balance and control. The trampoline is designed with a curved leg, helping to ensure stability and less chance of tipping over. Check out the model 370!

Stay tuned for future articles on the benefits of bouncing!