Jump for Joy — and for Stronger Bones!

Did you know that every jump, hop, and quick change of direction in class isn’t just about cardio or coordination — it’s also powerful medicine for your bones?
According to exercise physiologist Dr. Stacy Sims, one of the best ways to build and protect bone density (especially for women in midlife and beyond) is through impact and multidirectional movement — the very kind of training we do together in class! 

As we age, we naturally lose bone density — especially after menopause, when estrogen levels drop. But research shows that short bursts of impact loading, like jumps, hops and even those explosive squats that we love to hate, can actually stimulate bone growth by as much as 3–5% per year when done consistently. These moves create tiny, healthy stresses on the skeleton that tell your bones: “Hey, we need to stay strong and resilient!”
Even better, it doesn’t take hours of training. Studies show just that just a few dynamic jumps, a few times a week, can make a difference.

In Class, you’re not just moving to the beat — you’re training your bones, too! Every time we:

• Perform jumping jacks or explosive squats,
• Add quick side-to-side transitions,
• Include plyometric bursts or high-energy intervals,
  you’re giving your body the multidirectional impact it needs to stay strong, agile, and bone-healthy.

Why Multidirectional Matters: Bones respond to the direction of the force placed on them.
That’s why moving forward, back, side-to-side, and diagonally keeps your hips, spine and legs strong from every angle. It’s not just jumping up and down — it’s how we land, move and change direction that truly strengthens the skeletal system.
Takeaway: Keep dancing, jumping and moving in every direction — your heart, muscles and bones will thank you!
So next time we hit those jacks, hops and squats — know you’re not just crushing calories…You’re building your future strength from the inside out.