Mike Campanella

So let’s JUMP right in! Pun. Intended.

Jumping and plyometric exercises are important to incorporate into a fitness program, especially as we age, for several reasons.

FIRST, these exercises can improve overall cardiovascular health, increase anaerobic power, and increase aerobic capacity. Jumping exercises require a significant amount of energy and force to be produced, which can improve heart health and increase lung capacity over time.

SECOND, jumping, and plyometric exercises train the body’s fast-twitch muscle fibers. (These are the first muscle fibers that we lose as we age.) These muscle fibers are responsible for producing quick, explosive movements and are crucial for activities such as running, jumping, and sprinting. Additionally, training fast twitch muscle fibers can also have functional benefits in everyday life (lifting heavy objects or quickly reacting to a potential fall).
THIRD, jumping, and plyometric exercises can help improve bone density, which is crucial for middle-aged individuals who may be at a higher risk for osteoporosis. When the body is subjected to impact forces through jumping and plyometric exercises, it stimulates bone growth and density, helping to prevent bone loss and fractures.

LASTLY, incorporating jumping and plyometric exercises into a fitness program can improve balance and coordination. As individuals age, their balance and coordination can decline, increasing their risk of falls and injury. Plyometric exercises require quick and precise movements, which can improve proprioception and body awareness, leading to better balance and coordination.

OVERALL, incorporating jumping and plyometric exercises into a fitness program can provide a variety of benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, maintenance of fast twitch muscle fibers, increased bone density, and improved balance and coordination. It is important to note, however, that these exercises should be performed with proper form and progression to minimize the risk of injury. It is highly recommended that you perform these exercises under the supervision of a trained professional. If only we knew any of those…