I have a question regarding the aerobic bouncer, or rebounder. I have one of these and love to use it. How effective is this for osteoporosis? I generally work out on it for at least 30 minutes, 6 days a week and use fast disco music when I am not using the video. I just purchased Dr. Nelson's book Strong Women, Strong Bones and am going to start the exercises she recommends but would like to continue with the bouncer.

Aerobic bouncers or trampolines have made are appearance on the fitness market. Unfortunately there has also been an increase in emergency room visits and injuries associated with their use, particularly in children. Anterior dislocation of the knee is common.

In terms of bone health, there have been no scientific studies examining rebounders. However, there is evidence that jumping or bounding on the floor or hard surfaces does help to improve density. You may have read this in Dr. Nelson's book - Strong Women, Strong Bones.

Given the available information, the use of rebounders will not substantially improve bone health and do put users at an increased risk of injury. We do not recommend the use of this type of equipment in general, or for bone health and do not recommend that it be used in conjunction with any type of weights or dumbbells.