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Make Joint-Friendly Exercise Fun With These Editor-Tested Workout Trampolines

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Make Joint-Friendly Exercise Fun With These Editor-Tested Workout Trampolines

Exercise trampolines are a great way to sneak in some extra cardio in a fun, low-impact way. This type of exercise is called rebounding, and it only requires one piece of equipment—a mini trampoline or rebounder. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, but walking and biking aren’t your only options.

Jason Yachanin, the co-owner and a trainer at Perspirology, tells us that rebounding provides a low-impact, continuous workout that’s great for people who struggle to pay attention during workouts. Holly Roser, a certified personal trainer and owner of the Holly Roser Fitness Studio, explains that rebounding can also improve cardiovascular health and balance while helping you lose weight. Rebounding also offers a full-body strength and conditioning workout when combined with strength moves like squats and lunges, and it’s also a good option for anyone who struggles with knee pain from exercise. Natasha Caleel Freutel, a certified corrective exercise specialist and owner of fitness studio Fit Mama Santa Barbara, adds that rebounders can also provide an excellent workout for the cardiovascular system, legs, core, arms, and back. Plus, exercise trampolines can be just as effective as resistance training for improving knee muscle strength, according to a December 2019 study in Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport.

To find the best exercise trampolines, we tested a total of 13 products for 8 hours, with an on-site personal trainer present to supervise our testing. Each trampoline was evaluated for sturdiness, quality, comfortability, and bounce. A physical therapist from our Medical Expert Board reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy.

Not all rebounders are built the same. So when shopping for a rebounder, there are a few important things to be aware of.

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  • Size: While most rebounders feature a diameter of 40 inches, the jumping area is usually a bit smaller. While Roser notes that a larger trampoline provides the space for wider jumps, it’s important to factor in that they will also take up more space.
  • Type of Bounce: Exercise trampolines come in either spring or bungee options. Spring options can offer more bounce, but bungee options may be easier on the joints.
  • Noise Level: While many options are quiet, it’s still important to consider the overall sound level of your rebounder, especially if you don’t live alone or you have downstairs neighbors. Generally speaking, bungee options are quieter than spring options.
  • Tension: A more firm pick will result in less bounce while more a bouncier pick may make you jump too high. Some picks are adjustable so you can find your own sweet spot.

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The reasonably priced JumpSport 350 earned the top spot on our list for its overall performance, and it also comes recommended by Freutel who likes that it is adjustable for your personal own demands. We found it to be exceptionally stable, while promoting comfort in every position we tried it in. A 16 gauge steel tubing promoted durability that stood out to us, and the arched legs which are designed for stability also lived up to the description.

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In our experience, this pick had just the right amount of tension and bounce. However, if you find it’s not right for you, it’s important to note that it has three adjustable tension settings to optimize it for your own specific jumping needs. Plus, the cords are designed with silence in mind. Importantly, Yachanin tells us that JumpSport is the only brand used at Perspirology, and that it is always working to update and upgrade their models.

  • A 39 inch diameter is smaller than other options that we tested, so you will be more limited in jumping space.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 39 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 265 pounds
  • Foldable: No

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This remarkably low priced trampoline from Fitness Gear includes sturdy legs and the mesh didn’t move during usage, so we experienced no instability when jumping. In fact, our tester found that this budget pick was the most stable of the five trampolines they had tested. It also experienced no squeaking, and while it doesn’t fold, it’s smaller than other picks, with a frame size of 36 inches, so it can still be stored.

The tension of this model was tight, and it had a particularly consistent bounce profile, which left us feeling in control of our workouts. Additionally, the metal legs, the thick mesh, and the thick cotton and nylon combo for the cover combined for a well made feel despite the lower price. Plus, a cotton and nylon cover in the space between the mesh and the hooks made us feel more safe.

  • The smaller size may be limiting in terms of the movements that you can perform.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 36 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 220 pounds
  • Foldable: No

Acon

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Standard exercise trampolines are usually around 40 inches wide, but this model from Acon is substantially larger, coming in at 55 inches wide. Roser notes that this additional size means this pick allows for exercises like jump squats and lunge jumps while the sturdiness allows for things like push-ups, step-ups, and tricep dips. We found it to be extremely stable, encouraging us to perform a wide variety of movements due to the additional space. And despite the size, we found it to be surprisingly lightweight.

This pick is also well-built; the frame and suspension system is patent-pending for its stability and safe but quiet landing, and that stability made our tester, who is a trampoline newbie, feel extra safe.

  • The spacious design will not work for people that are living in cramped quarters.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 55 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 300 pounds
  • Foldable: No

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Another reasonably priced option, this pic from DARCHEN is perfect for anyone looking to dip their toe into the world of trampolines without making a sizable investment. While particularly lightweight, we were still impressed by how stable it was; the rubber feet kept it sturdy during usage and we found it to be effortless to carry.

We were able to easily slide it across the floor when we wanted to, but it didn’t move during usage. That level of portability earned it higher marks from us. Finally, we appreciated that this option was noiseless, so you won’t have to worry about disrupting your neighbors when rebounding.

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  • It is a no frills pick that doesn’t come with any special features or higher quality materials.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 40 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 450 pounds
  • Foldable: No

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Bungee trampolines can feel less shocking on the joints when compared to models that use springs. We particularly liked this pick from Bellicon, which impressed us by offering more bounce than tension. In fact, we were impressed by how much bounce we were able to achieve with the smaller sized pick. Additionally, at no point did we feel unsafe or like this was anything less than stable when jumping.

This option uses high quality materials that felt safe and sturdy for us in testing. It also boasts a simple set up with easy to follow instructions.

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  • The bounce may be too high for some people considering the smaller size of the trampoline

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 39 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 440 pounds
  • Foldable: No

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Weighing just 22 pounds, this pick was super easy to move around. And, as Roser notes, that lightweight profile makes it a good choice for smaller spaces. Importantly, Roser adds that while the legs fold when not in use, they do lock in place during usage, so you can feel safe. In testing, we thoroughly enjoyed this trampoline for its bounce, quality, comfort, and portability.

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The patented bungee system has roughly twice as many connectors as other models, ensuring a soft, silent landing. In terms of quality, it held up well to being put through workouts. The springs were taut during jumping, and our advanced tester said they would recommend this to beginners as well.

  • When we did ski jumps, we felt the legs shift, making this slightly less stable than other picks.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 40 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 330 pounds
  • Foldable: Yes

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If you’re looking to enjoy some sunshine while you do your bouncing, the Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor and Outdoor Exercise Trampoline is our pick for you. It came mostly pre-assembled, requiring only that we attach the legs. In terms of performance, it was highly stable, with good shock absorption from the springs, a consistent bounce, and it even enabled us to vigorously bounce without it moving.

This adjustable pick comes in a square design intended to optimize and maximize jumping space. We also experienced no wobbling or squeaking.

  • It is not collapsible, so you will want to make sure that you have ample space to store it.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 36 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 285 pounds
  • Foldable: No

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In our experience, this trampoline excelled at maintaining a quiet performance during usage, due in part to the highly elastic bungees used by Bellicon. While some trampolines feel too rigid and others are too bouncy, we found this one to strike a perfect balance, being bouncy enough to jump high and sturdy enough to do stable squats.

If you’re looking for some extra jumping area, this one boasts a 49-inch diameter, making it more than wide enough for all of our workouts. Additionally, customers have the option of purchasing ultra-strong bungees to support weights of up to 440 pounds which is among the highest weight capacities we’ve seen.

  • This pick is priced much higher than most of the other options on our list.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 49 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 440 pounds
  • Foldable: Yes

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Despite being a “mini”, this trampoline proved to offer stability and a robust 330 pound weight limit with its 40 inch option. Our tester also found this model to be extremely sturdy and comfortable, noting that the safety bar kept them feeling safe during usage. And for customizability, that bar can be adjusted between four different heights.

Even as a mini, we still found that this pick was spacious enough to accommodate our desired workouts, and the bounce to tension ratio was ideal.

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  • Some people find that the folding process is tedious.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 40 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 331 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes

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For a higher weight limit, BCAN’s 450/550 LBS Foldable Mini Trampoline is our pick. It’s available in either a 40 inch option with a 450 pound weight limit, or a 48 inch option with a 550 pound weight limit. Assembly was simple; all of the necessary tools were included, and the instructions were clear, with detailed up close pictures to guide us. We found this option to have excellent overall stability, and the bungees worked well to provide ample spring for a good workout while still feeling perfectly safe. When we tested out side to side movements we didn’t experience any shifting.

The mat also proved to be spacious enough for us to comfortably squat or do lateral jumping exercises. In our experience, the metal parts were durable, and we didn’t need to overly rely on the handlebars due to the stability of the mat. We experienced no wobbling or squeaking of the bungees and the spacious design kept us feeling extra safe throughout usage.

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  • The handlebar felt somewhat loose, so we couldn’t fully rely on it fully for support and we couldn’t tighten it.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 40 or 48 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 450/550 pounds
  • Foldable: Yes

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For exercisers looking to be able to safely push it to the limit, we recommend this pick from ACON Fit. The 1.5 inch thick steel piped legs proved to be highly sturdy, while the anti-slide rubber stoppers on the bottom helped to keep this rebounder even more secure, holding it fully in place during two intensive rounds of exercise.

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In terms of performance, the 30 bungee springs worked well to keep our bounce controlled while still inspiring the confidence to go for a higher intensity while exercising. Finally, this pick provided the perfect balance of support and bounce for exercises like jumping jacks, high knees, and jump squats.

  • The instructions aren’t detailed enough, making it complicated to assemble.
  • While stable and excellent for high intensity, we found that going too far to one side did cause some wobbling.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 40 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 330 pounds
  • Foldable: No

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We found this option from SereneLife to be ideal for seniors for a few reasons. For starters, it arrived mostly assembled, coming with metal springs, so there was no need to attach bungees. When we jumped on it, we experienced no shifting or instability, and the tight springs lowered the overall movement, so we think it’s good to keep seniors safe with limited ranges of motion. It also felt controlled and low to the ground, and experienced no shifting.

The smaller footprint is a nice touch for people looking to avoid taking up too much space. And as a final benefit for seniors, it features an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted up to 46 inches high.

  • The smaller space, while beneficial for seniors that won’t be doing larger moves, is limiting for people looking to do wider movements like jumping jacks.
  • While we appreciate the handrail, we felt that it could’ve been easier to adjust and it also affected the performance of the front of the trampoline when installed.

Product Details

  • Frame Size: 40 inches
  • Maximum Weight: 220 pounds
  • Foldable: Yes

  • We updated our best budget pick. Our previous pick, the Wamkos Rebounder Mini Exercise Trampoline, is no longer available. We replaced it with the Fitness Gear Mini Trampoline, a trampoline that was part of our most recent testing and received an overall 4.7 out of 5 star rating for its excellent value, stability, and durability.
  • We replaced the pick for the Best for Dedicated Jumpers, the Bellicon Plus Trampoline with Handle 44” with Fold-Up Legs, because it is no longer available.
  • In addition to the best budget pick, we added five other new products from our most recent testing: Bellicon’s 39 Inch Mini Trampoline (best bungee), Sunny Health & Fitness’ Indoor & Outdoor Exercise Trampoline (best outdoor), BCAN’s 450/550 LBS Foldable Mini Trampoline (best weight capacity), ACON Fit’s 44 Inch Rebounder (best for high impact exercises), and SereneLift’s Portable & Foldable Trampoline (best for seniors).

To date, we have tested a total of 21 products in our search for the best exercise trampolines on the market. More recently, we completed additional testing on 13 new products for eight hours to update our list and make it even more precise. In making our picks, we put the trampolines through a variety of movements including basic jumps, ACON fit squats, jumping jacks, low ski jumps, squats, and high knees. We focussed on ease of assembly, stability, bounce/tension, quality, and value to make our final picks.

  • Ease of assembly: From the moment we opened the trampolines, we noted how simple they were to set up. We also addressed the quality of the instructions and how easy they were to follow. We were also sure to acknowledge if tools were necessary, and if so whether they were included in the packaging or not. In the case of particularly difficult to understand steps, we made note of them and addressed how we overcame the problem.
  • Stability: We noted if there was any shifting in the base during usage, as well as the overall support and range of movement allowed for by the springs. We were sure to note any moments where we felt less than stable during usage, and when we put the rebounders to the test with high-impact exercises, we also made note of any shifting.
  • Bounce/tension: We used this as an opportunity to examine the overall tension and to examine whether the rebounders provided an effective workout while leaving us feeling in control. We were also sure to determine the consistency of the bounce across different exercises, and whether the tension created any discomfort for us, as well as if it positively or negatively affected our workout experience.
  • Quality: Because of the compromised position that rebounding puts us into, we were sure to focus on more durable options for safety. We looked at the materials used and the overall construction of each model, and addressed whether the springs, frame, and handles felt durable. We also noted if there were changes in the feeling of the jumping area after usage, as well as if there was any squeaking or wobbling after usage.
  • Value: Based on the average price of rebounders, our testers noted how worth it the models were. They noted if they would buy these models for the listed price, if they would pay more, if they would pay less, if they would buy it on sale, or if they would skip it entirely.

Our team of experts helped us to not only understand the benefits of exercise trampolines, but to understand what people should seek from them.

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  • Jason Yachanin, co-owner and trainer at Perspirology.
  • Holly Roser, certified personal trainer and owner of the Holly Roser Fitness Studio.
  • Natasha Caleel Freutel, certified corrective exercise specialist and owner of fitness studio Fit Mama Santa Barbara.

  • Weight Capacity: It’s important to pick a safer model to jump on because you don’t want something that leaves you feeling unsafe. Some models have lower weight limits in the 200-pound range, while others go as high as 500 pounds. Make sure you purchase something built for you and won’t put you in harm’s way.
  • Materials: The materials used in your trampoline determine its weight capacity. As Freutel explains, a sturdy and high-quality option is important because you’ll be bouncing on it. She advocates avoiding cheap metal options, which can break or bend.
  • Health Benefits: Jumping on an exercise trampoline is a great workout, especially for anyone looking for a low-impact form of cardio. Yochanan tells us that the high-intensity nature of rebounding builds bone density and is unique in promoting lymphatic drainage. It burns calories, increases your heart rate, and strengthens your muscles all in one. Studies have shown that mini trampoline usage positively affects overall health and is a beneficial training program for overweight individuals. Freutel explains that rebounding keeps the heart rate up and can burn calories quicker than going for a walk or a bike ride.

While we picked the 12 best options, we tested many more that fell short in some regard to keep them off of our list.

  • RAVS 48″ Foldable Fitness Rebounder: While this pick featured a sturdy base, supportive springs, and was suitable for a variety of exercises, we found the assembly to be overly involved, and the handlebars to be less supportive than we wanted.
  • Jumpsport 570 Pro 44″ Fitness Trampoline: Despite a super easy assembly, clear instructions, and a wonderful balance of firmness and bounciness, this pick left us desiring more from its stability. We felt it was overpriced, given this concern.
  • Sportplus+ Indoor Trampoline: It’s a good option for the price, but our tester had some reservations about stability. Though bouncing and landings were comfortable, parts of the trampoline were uneven.
  • FirstE 48″ Foldable Fitness Trampoline: The large size made our tester feel secure and comfortable to move around, but the tension was on the firmer size, so more effort was needed to reach the desired jumping height.
  • JumpSport 250 Fitness Trampoline: The JumpSport 350 is our top pick, but the 250 fell short in sturdiness and the size of the surface area. Our tester enjoyed the workout but found this model to be too bouncy and narrow.
  • Marcy Trampoline Cardio Trainer with Handle: A handle is a nice touch to add security, but our tester found this handle to be unstable and wobbly. This could be an option to consider for someone who prefers a firm bouncing surface.

Lacey Muinos is a health and fitness writer at Health who has researched and reviewed a variety of exercise products, such as antiperspirants and socks. Her preferred forms of exercise are strength training, pilates, and walking, but she can appreciate a fun workout like rebounding.

This article was updated by Jack Byram, a writer at Health who has been covering all things exercise-related since 2023. As a workout fanatic, Jack knows the value of high-quality, low-impact workouts and used to regularly use a rebounder. Anecdotally, he liked it as a means to get himself moving in the morning and even found it to provide a mild endorphin rush.

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The 15 best Black Friday health and wellness deals of 2024 | Globalnews.ca

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The 15 best Black Friday health and wellness deals of 2024  | Globalnews.ca

The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms.

We’ve all got health and wellness goals, whether we want a better night’s rest or we’ve been meaning to finally set up that home workout space. With mind-blowing Black Friday deals across Canada, however, now is the time to start taking steps toward achieving those goals. From workout equipment and supplements to kitchen essentials and mindfulness tools, here are some of the best bargains available right now.

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21% off

If you’ve been looking to get into the Peloton game and are gearing up for a home workout routine in the New Year, now is the time to grab one of these machines. The Bike+ model is 21 per cent off at Amazon for Black Friday, helping you to save some money while inching closer to those cardio and strength goals.

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36% off

Get a better idea of your sleep, heart rate and activity minutes with this advanced health tracker, which is now more than 30 per cent off. This smart watch includes more than 40 exercise modes, is compatible with some workout machines, stays charged for up to a week, and is so lightweight that you’ll barely feel it on your wrist. Grab one in porcelain or black.

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25% off

Saje Pocket Farmacy Black Friday

Sage Wellness currently has 25 per cent off its entire online store (and free shipping for orders over $60), which makes now a great time to stock up on your favourite essential oils. We love this kit in particular, which is designed to get you through the holidays. It comes with five roll-on oils to tackle all of life’s ups and downs: negativity, uneasiness, sluggishness, racing thoughts and social battery.

 

22% off

If you’re looking to improve the air quality of your home with a beloved machine that also heats and cools the space, the Dyson purifier is now $200 off for Black Friday. This machine detects airborne particles and gases and diagnoses and reports them in real time, so you can know exactly what’s going on in your living space.

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25% off

Foam rollers are great to smooth out sore muscles and work on knots. But Therabody’s wave roller offers next-level warm-ups and recovery with its large-muscles roller. It includes five customizable vibration frequencies to reduce tension and improve mobility, plus the included app helps guide you through your specific needs with each session.

42% off

Workout, walk or meal prep to your favourite podcast or tunes with these sleek, Bluetooth-enabled headsets, which come in three colours and are on sale for an impressive 42 per cent off. They feature up to 50-hours of battery life and charge quickly, plus they’re lightweight, snug, and come with a multipoint connection that allows you to switch quickly between devices.

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22% off

Save more than $100 on this blending powerhouse, which doesn’t just make the smoothest smoothies but it can also chop, emulsify and heat your healthy, homemade meals. If you want to stretch your produce even farther or experiment more in the kitchen, this beloved gadget will help.

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74% off

If your goal is to walk more in the coming months but you’re not a fan of the colder weather, a walking pad is a brilliant solution. Stash one under your desk or couch and easily pull it out when you’re getting work done or watching TV. If you’re on the fence, now might be the time to invest, because this well-reviewed walking pad is on sale for a whopping 76 per cent off.

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26% off

Everyone knows it’s important to drink enough water, but that can be a hard thing to remember every day. This half-gallon water bottle can definitely help, no matter your activity. It’s insulated so the water stays cold for up to 48 hours, and it comes with a straw and spout lid for easy drinking. It also includes a carrying pouch, carabiner and paracord handle so that you actually can bring it with you anywhere you go.

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31% off

We read a lot about light and sleeping patterns, and the importance of getting the right types of light for a better night’s rest. With that in mind, this smart sleep alarm features a coloured sunrise simulation to help wake you up easier during those dark mornings. It also features customizable dimming lights and gentle sounds to help you get to sleep even faster.

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  • The 13 best Black Friday beauty deals of 2024

  • Amazon Black Friday Deals on super impactful small home upgrades

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50% off

Headspace Black Friday Sale

Whether you want to get into meditation, increase your mindfulness, or access more articles and resources that will help you find your calm, Headspace is a great online tool to help you achieve your goals. And now, thanks to Black Friday, membership is 50 per cent off. Choose from a monthly or yearly payment plan and find your zen today.

 

40% off

Keeping your health in check is more than a number on the scale, which is why this smart scale offers a bigger picture. It tracks 13 body measurements like BMI, body fat percentage, bone mass and skeletal muscle, and includes an app that stores that info for you, complete with charts and goal tracking.

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11% off

Magnesium supplements have been gaining popularity for those who want a better night’s sleep. We’ve started taking these capsules before bed and find that when we do, we sleep longer without waking up as many times throughout the night. We also feel more rested in the mornings. If you want to try them for yourself, they’re on sale for Black Friday at Healthy Planet. (Always consult with a health care professional before starting any new supplement or routine.)

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23% off

Boozy advent calendars have become all the rage, and there are drinks aplenty to go around during the holidays. Give your body a break with these tasty mocktails from Canadian company Upside Drinks, which offer advent calendars for those who want to abstain this season. For Black Friday, they‘re even offering a 23 per cent discount.

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$53.01 off

Shelfy Black Friday

If you’ve been stocking up on fresh produce and finding that it never lasts as long as you intended, perhaps it’s time to invest in a device that will extend its shelf life. That’s what Shelfy promises to do with its two-year warranty and 14-day return policy. The device eliminates bacteria and odours in the fridge, slowing down the ripening of fruits and veggies to help you stretch your groceries even longer.

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Vital Proteins Bovine Collagen Peptides Powder – $36.94

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Philips Sonicare 4900 Power Toothbrush – $59.95

Muscle Massage Gun – $69.97

Loop Ear Plugs – $39.95

 Shiatsu Foot Massager – $147.47

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Exercise at medical fitness centres improving health for older adults, says U of M study

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Exercise at medical fitness centres improving health for older adults, says U of M study


A new study has found older adults who regularly attend medical fitness centres have better heart health and live longer.


The study was published in BMC Geriatrics this summer and found people who went to the fitness facilities had a 27 per cent reduction in the risk of heart attack and stroke.


Those who went to work out more than once a week were 23 per cent less likely to need emergency room care.


“Exercise really does improve their lives, not only needing to use the emergency room less often, or prolonging life, but it also results in decreased mental illness, in particular depression and anxiety,” said Dr. Alan Katz, one of the co-authors of the study.


Researchers looked at 3,029 members of the Wellness Centre and Reh-Fit Centre, and compared their results to over 91,000 people in the wider community.

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Katz said the study showed the importance of constant exercise as people age, and how facilities like Reh-Fit Centre and the Wellness Centre assist people who may need extra help or motivation to exercise.


“The places where there is medical assistance allows us to recommend people to go to exercise under supervision where there is limited risk, and increasing their exercise. So it’s having some true benefit,” he said.


Medical fitness facilities typically have health staff on site to assist people, compared to other gyms.


The study was funded by Research Manitoba, the Seven Oaks Hospital Foundation, and the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

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Afrobeats exercise class moves Arbor Hill Community Center

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Afrobeats exercise class moves Arbor Hill Community Center

Olivia Frempong, the proprietor of LivFit, leads her Afrobeats and Afropraise Zumba class at Albany’s Arbor Hill Community Center.

Jim Franco/Times Union

ALBANY — Though the Arbor Hill Community Center’s blue and yellow gymnasium is classic American atmosphere, Olivia Frempong’s Tuesday night Ghanaian Zumba-style class, LivFit Afrobeats, is wholeheartedly West African. 

“When you walk through these doors, this is an environment where you can shake off all your stress and just have fun for an hour,” Frempong said. 

The energy of the class is established as soon as the speaker starts bumping Afrobeats, which makes it nearly impossible to stand still.

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Any self-consciousness a dancer might feel is drowned out by the music, which Frempong describes as soul, jazz, rhythm and blues mixed with traditional African vibes.

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When the class begins at 6 p.m., there are around eight of us — half are new. But as the beats flow, more and more people trickle in until the gym is warmed by over 20 people — ranging from 6-year-old kids to 60-year-olds — moving to the beat. 

The class starts with participants marching in place and builds from that.

Frempong emphasizes that her class, which she leads alongside her 12-year-old daughter, Gabby, is for all abilities and sizes, encouraging those who aren’t confident in their dancing abilities.

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“If you can’t follow all the dance movements that’s OK, but just march in place,” Frempong said. “Have fun and be the best marcher there is in the room.” 

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Frempong was inspired to create LivFit 413 LLC in 2019, though her fitness journey started years prior. In 2012, Frempong gave birth to twins. She already had an 18-month-old. 

At a postpartum doctor’s appointment, the doctor told her she had high blood pressure. As a breastfeeding mother of three, Frempong understood why. She questioned when the doctor’s first instinct was to prescribe her medicine. 

“It just didn’t sit well with me that my first appointment to the doctor, I’m already being prescribed medications,” Frempong said. 

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Frempong said she prayed and asked God to help her do the right thing. She chose not to take the medication.  

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Instead, she started by running a block and slowly increasing the increments until becoming a full-blown “running fanatic.” Frempong founded the Albany chapter of Black Girls Run in 2016. To date, she’s run eight marathons and is preparing to run the Boston Marathon in April 2025. 

As part of her running in the Boston Marathon, she’s raising funds for the Herren Project, an addiction recovery nonprofit. Frempong has worked for 12 years as a clinical social worker and supervisor at St. Mary’s Hospital in Troy, working with people battling drug and alcohol addiction.

In 2017, Frempong earned her certification to teach Zumba, a popular dance fitness program. While taking a break from marathons in 2019, her friends encouraged her to take her love of dance and create a fitness program. Rather than teach the same Zumba curriculum, Frempong put a cultural twist on the exercise style.

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“I’m from Ghana, West Africa,” Frempong said. “I like sharing my rich, beautiful culture with the people.”

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Tabitha Johnson has been attending the class since February. For her, the atmosphere and the lack of judgment is what keeps her coming back — and has inspired her to bring more people to the class.

The Tuesday night class has become a recurring social and fitness activity for Johnson and her co-workers from the Department of Motor Vehicles, three of whom are with her on this particular night. 

“You don’t feel the pressure to perform everything,” Johnson said. “You don’t feel like you failed once you left, as long as you moved.”

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Johnson said that Frempong’s support continues outside of class, as she posts encouraging content on her Facebook group and Instagram and will reach out and check in when she notices regulars skipping class.

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The weekly class being free is an added incentive, Johnson said. Frempong also teaches in Albany at the YMCA and at Push Fitness. 

Frempong’s goal is to keep people moving, which she said is particularly important this time of year. 

“When winter comes, people fall into depression because it’s dark out and nobody wants to move,” Frempong said. “My mission this winter is to just keep people moving.”

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Accompanying her Afrobeats, Frempong also incorporates Afropraise in her workout. She calls it faith fitness ministry, with the goal of motivating people of all fitness abilities and sizes. It’s subtle enough that if you’re agnostic, like me, you can still enjoy it.

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At the end of the class, Frempong prays, “It’s by God’s grace we made it through the day, and by his grace we’ll finish the year strong.”

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