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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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How Jeremy Clarkson Reset His Health and Fitness at 66 – Walking, Pilates and Trying ‘Not to Die’

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How Jeremy Clarkson Reset His Health and Fitness at 66 – Walking, Pilates and Trying ‘Not to Die’

Rewind a decade or so, and Jeremy Clarkson had a particular disdain for exercise, healthy eating and denying himself life’s pleasures. He never worked out, smoked 40 cigarettes a day and, in his own words, drank four pints of wine daily. Now, at 65, his entire outlook on health and longevity has shifted.

At the heart of Clarkson’s desire to change are his young grandchildren.

‘I’m not going to dwell on the joys of being a grandparent because what can be said about it has already been said. But I have decided that it is so wonderful that I want it to go on for as long as is humanly possible. Which means I must do everything in my power not to die,’ he wrote in his column forThe Times.

And the British TV personality has certainly had a couple of wake-up calls.

After being admitted to hospital with pneumonia in 2017, Clarkson then suffered what he described as ‘really bad coronary artery problems’ at the end of 2024. Documented in the latest series of Clarkson’s Farm, he experienced a ‘sudden deterioration’ in his health and needed a stent fitted to restore proper blood flow.

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Why Clarkson Finally Started Taking His Health Seriously

Since then, he has taken up reformer Pilates, had a pickleball court installed at his Oxfordshire home and started going for walks when the weather is just right.

‘Eventually, I decided that organised, indoor exercise was not for me and decided instead to do walking. Not when it’s raining obviously. Or if it’s too cold, or hot. And not if I’m busy. But on a reasonably temperate Sunday morning, I’d get out there and pootle along,’ he wrote.

‘So far I’ve relied on luck to keep me alive. But I’m in sniper’s alley right now and I have to work at dodging the bullets. Two years ago, I saw old age as a wearisome tangle of tubes and knee-replacement surgery. Now though, thanks to my grandchildren, I’m actively looking forward to it.’

Clarkson’s comments highlight just how much his attitude to ageing has changed.

‘I’m buying time. It hurts and it’s expensive. But it’s better than wasting your money on a new watch.’

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The Diet Changes Behind Clarkson’s 3-Stone Weight Loss

Diet has also become a key part of his health overhaul.

He now eats burgers wrapped in lettuce rather than buns and opts for alcohol-free versions of his Hawkstone beer. Underpinning much of that change has been a microdose of the GLP-1 medication Mounjaro, which Clarkson credits with helping him lose more than three stone in six months by suppressing his appetite – although he admits he doesn’t particularly enjoy the experience.

‘When you are on Muntjac [his name for Mounjaro] you can come down in the morning and idly help yourself to a small handful of sunflower seeds,’ Clarkson said. ‘And it’ll feel like you’ve just finished a massive Christmas lunch. You’re stuffed.

‘So you find yourself living a minibar existence. Tiny packets of milk, sachets with only three grains of sugar in them, vodka in thimbles. That’s not living, though. That’s existing.’


If there’s one thing Kori Sampson knows, it’s how to optimise your body composition for performance. To tap into his knowledge as an elite athlete and coach, we asked him to create a 4-week plan to help you move faster, recover quicker and keep pushing when the fatigue sets in – all while improving your muscle-to-fat ratio.

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Ready to build muscle, burn fat and come out the other side looking, feeling and performing better? Click here to get 14 days of free access to the plan via the Men’s Health app.


Headshot of Ryan Dabbs

Ryan is a Senior Writer at Men’s Health UK with a passion for storytelling, health and fitness. Having graduated from Cardiff University in 2020, and later obtaining his NCTJ qualification, Ryan started his career as a Trainee News Writer for sports titles Golf Monthly, Cycling Weekly and Rugby World before progressing to Staff Writer and subsequently Senior Writer with football magazine FourFourTwo.

During his two-and-a-half years there he wrote news stories for the website and features for the magazine, while he also interviewed names such as Les Ferdinand, Ally McCoist, Jamie Redknapp and Antonio Rudiger, among many others. His standout memory, though, came when getting the opportunity to speak to then-Plymouth Argyle manager Steven Schumacher as the club won League One in 2023.

Having grown up a keen footballer and playing for his boyhood side until the age of 16, Ryan got the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland national futsal team eight times, scoring three goals against England, Scotland and Gibraltar. Now past his peak, Ryan prefers to mix weightlifting with running – he achieved a marathon PB of 3:31:49 at Manchester in April 2025, but credits the heat for failing to get below the coveted 3:30 mark…

You can follow Ryan on Instagram or on X  

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Fitness coach debunks 8 ‘crazy’ exercise myths women still believe: From periods and workouts to weightlifting

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Fitness coach debunks 8 ‘crazy’ exercise myths women still believe: From periods and workouts to weightlifting

Despite growing awareness around fitness and women’s health, several outdated exercise myths continue to persist. From misconceptions about strength training to beliefs surrounding periods, pregnancy and weight loss, many women still receive advice that isn’t backed by science. These myths can not only slow progress but also discourage women from prioritising their health and fitness. (Also read: Can eating too much protein be harmful? Experts explain why excess intake may do more harm than good )

Fitness coach debunks 8 harmful fitness myths women still face. (Pexels )

Fitness coach Zoe recently addressed some of the most common misconceptions women continue to hear in a June 12 Instagram post titled, “craziest exercise myths women still hear.” Here’s what she had to say:

1. Periods mean complete bed rest

According to Zoe, menstruation does not mean you need to stop exercising altogether. “No. You can train. Just adjust intensity if needed,” she wrote, explaining that while energy levels may fluctuate during different phases of the menstrual cycle, movement and exercise can still be beneficial.

2. After marriage or kids, fitness is not important

Many women are often made to feel that fitness should take a back seat after major life changes such as marriage or motherhood. Zoe strongly disagrees. “That is exactly when it becomes more important,” she said, highlighting the need to maintain strength, mobility and overall health while navigating increased responsibilities.

3. A C-section means your core is gone forever

Recovering from a Caesarean delivery can be challenging, but Zoe says it doesn’t mean women should give up on rebuilding strength. “Wrong. It means you need rebuilding, not giving up,” she wrote, emphasising that gradual rehabilitation and proper training can help restore core function.

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4. Walking around the house is enough exercise

While daily movement is important, Zoe points out that it isn’t the same as a structured workout. “No. That is movement, not full training,” she explained, noting that a balanced fitness routine should include strength, mobility and cardiovascular exercises.

5. Sweating more means more fat loss

Many people associate excessive sweating with effective fat burning, but Zoe says that’s a common misunderstanding. “No. It means you are hot,” she wrote. Sweat is the body’s cooling mechanism and does not necessarily reflect the number of calories burned or fat lost.

6. Running will ruin your uterus, boobs or joints

This long-standing myth often discourages women from running or high-impact activities. “No. Poor preparation and weak support is the issue,” Zoe said, stressing the importance of proper training, supportive gear and gradually building endurance.

7. Women should only do yoga, not weights

Strength training is still viewed by some as a male-dominated form of exercise, but Zoe believes women benefit greatly from lifting weights. “Women need strength too,” she wrote, highlighting how resistance training supports muscle mass, bone health, metabolism and overall fitness.

8. Carbs at night make you fat

Carbohydrates often get unfairly blamed for weight gain, especially when eaten in the evening. “No. Overeating does,” Zoe explained, pointing out that overall calorie intake and dietary patterns matter far more than the timing of carbohydrate consumption.

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Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

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As cost of living bites, one of the things slipping may be fitness goals

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As cost of living bites, one of the things slipping may be fitness goals

For Hobart teacher Mary Holton, health means everything. 

She started feeling the squeeze from cost-of-living pressures when fuel prices spiked again.

“Going out for just fitness alone was a bit much,”

she said.

Mary Holton says since joining the group, her fitness across the board has improved. (ABC News: Jake Grant)

Many Tasmanians are feeling cost-of-living pressures in a very physical way, with locals saying exercise routines are being dropped, health appointments delayed and wellbeing pushed to the bottom of the list as budgets tighten.

Ms Holton relies on multiple physiotherapy sessions each week, but says paid fitness classes simply are not an option.

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That costs … so to actually go to other classes as well, it’s out of my budget really.

People working out in a community hall.

Ollie Mathewson conducts a free workout session. (ABC News: Jake Grant)

National data shows that almost half of Australians already fall short of minimum physical activity guidelines, and rising prices are making even basic care unaffordable for many.

Consultant clinical psychologist academic Kimberley Norris says this is exactly how unhealthy patterns begin.

“We tend to focus on the most stressful thing first … and health is one of those things we don’t think about until things go wrong,”

Professor Norris said.

Woman standing at the end of a corridor.

Kimberley Norris says humans tend to focus on alleviating stress first and foremost, and warns de-prioritising health can become a cycle. (ABC News: Jake Grant)

For Ms Holton, going to a free workout group in her local community was a game-changer.

“Came down and absolutely loved it. It’s really nice to have a group and it just keeps growing,” she said.

Finding a free exercise group has drastically improved her health, as noted by her GP, and she is part of a growing trend.

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Free exercise classes become a lifeline

At a community exercise class in South Arm, south-east of Hobart, the mood is upbeat, with laughter, movement, and a sense of relief. 

Participation has more than doubled in the past year, with more than 100 Tasmanians now involved.

Trainer Ollie Mathewson said the surge was unmistakable.

“It’s free of charge for everybody … and over the last 12 months I’ve noticed a lot more people starting to come along,”

he said.

Man standing in front of a playground.

Ollie Mathewson says attendance at his classes has almost doubled over the past year. (ABC News: Jake Grant)

Across greater Hobart, free and low-cost alternatives are multiplying and include walking groups, community-run circuits, and morning and afternoon fitness meet-ups. 

Tasmanians are increasingly organising their own solutions.

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Mr Mathewson said connections drive outcomes.

A lot of people talk about weight and strength, which are obviously insanely important, having other people there to push you single every week makes it a hundred times easier.

Professor Norris said one’s health can be prioritised for free.

“What we know about health is, it’s more about sustainable wellbeing, it’s about quality of life,” she said.

“So rather than focusing on how much you can deadlift, how far you can run, it’s about how your life has improved and how close your life is to the way you want to live it.”

She said free options were vital because once people stop moving, it becomes harder to start again.

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If we develop routines in which health is not a priority, then we almost get stuck in this cycle of health always being last.

Health appointments being delayed or dropped

For some Tasmanians, the financial pressure is forcing even tougher choices.

Woman standing in front of a brick wall leading to a dock full of boats.

Amy Dakin says she can’t even think about getting a gym membership with all the other costs of living on her mind. (ABC News: Jake Grant)

Amy Dakin, who lives with a compromised immune system, often has no choice but to delay essential care.

“My health needs to be prioritised, but your bills come first, really,” she said.

Woman standing in front of a carpark.

Jordyn Rowbottom says she’s not the only one changing her hobbies to save on costs. (ABC News: Jake Grant)

Jordyn Rowbottom has seen the same pattern around her.

“People are being forced to cut what they can access,”

she said.

Professor Norris warns that these short-term decisions can create long-term harm, not just for individuals, but for the broader health system.

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She said the combination of financial pressure and reduced physical activity would create a public health challenge.

Trainers adapting to shrinking budgets

Personal trainer Nickola Orr works with clients across different income levels, ages and needs. 

She said affordability now shapes almost every program she designs.

“You want to make sure they can get as much help as they can within their price range,”

she said.

GYM

Nickola Orr is concerned about access to fitness and health services in the face of rising cost pressures. (ABC News: Jake Grant)

With the median individual spend on fitness in Tasmania sitting at almost $600 last year, Ms Orr said the warning signs were already visible.

“We’re going to see more results of long-term neglect; higher injuries, more need for mental health assistance. It’s going to snowball.”

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Her concerns echo Professor Norris’s academic findings that once healthy routines break down, the consequences ripple for years.

“The changes are very small … while they add up over time, there is no immediate impact,”

Ms Orr said.

Calls for more free and low-cost options

Mr Mathewson hopes the success of free community classes will inspire governments and private operators to expand accessible fitness programs.

“More free options would be a great thing. There are a few now, but there should be more,” he said.

The Tasmanian government has said it will release its 20-year preventive health strategy this month, titled The Health Revolution.

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A Department of Health spokesperson said the strategy “will address the broader social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health and wellbeing”.

“Specific issues about access to health services and programs are being considered through the Access to Health Services project, a Commonwealth-State partnership.

The Health Revolution will complement that project by addressing the root causes of poor health and the underlying conditions to make it easier for Tasmanians to live well.

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