Text: Denise Sommer, Dipl. Sports Science (uni.)

Training on unstable surfaces is indispensible in therapy and recreational sports as well as high performance sports. But why is that the case? What makes the TOGU Jumper so versatile and most importantly: what is the advantage for the user of training on an unstable surface?

How it works and its benefits:
Training on unstable surfaces means that the user has to pay more attention to carrying out the movements.
All control mechanisms in the body are on high alert – sufficient joint stability is needed. To achieve this, lightning fast, ingrained processes happen in the body. For this, three systems work together:

– the neuronal control system:
it consists of the central and peripheral nervous system, which must activate or inhibit the muscles at exactly the right time and to the correct extent.
– the active system:
it consists of the supporting or executing muscles, which can only be as good as the system activating them. The neuronal system therefore plays a superior role.
– the passive system:
it consists of the capsule-ligament apparatus and its relevant receptors on the joint.

Result:
Those who have a broad movement repertoire and therefore a well-trained overall system and established processes, will be able to correctly react to new or recurring situations in everyday life or sports activities, while at the same time ensuring sufficient safety for their joints.

Thanks to increased balance requirements during training on an unstable surface, such as the TOGU Jumper, the deeper lying muscles are also stimulated and used. Effect: the entire body tension and inter-muscular co-ordination are improved. The benefits of this training have their origin in physiotherapy where muscular weaknesses or imbalances are offset with functional exercises and gymnastics.

Versatility:
Whether for static or dynamic exercises, the patented TOGU Jumper is a multi-functional training partner. Thanks to its air filling, it is ideal for effective whole body training.
On closer inspection, the Jumper looks like a training ball that has been cut open and glued onto a plate. And it is exactly this construction that allows numerous uses.

Resting on its stable plate, the Jumper can be used practically for all muscles groups, especially for deeper lying muscles that are important for general fitness. There is no end to these training options as the Jumper can be used whilst standing up, sitting down or lying on one’s front, with or without additional equipment. Thanks to the non-slip coating of the base plate and the trampoline effect of the 2/3 ball, one can jump on it or jump at it from the side.
Turned over, the base plate can be used as a handle for press-ups or other stabilisation exercises that are carried out this position. Furthermore, there is an upgrade option that turns the base plate into a straight training surface (Jumper Pro).

Because of its safety and suitability to strengthen the back muscles, the Jumper was awarded the AGR Seal of Approval by “Aktion gesunder Rücken – besser leben e.V.”, an organisation promoting healthy posture for a healthy back.

The TOGU Jumper is available in two sizes and also with actisan® material.