Monserrat Markou has loved trampolines ever since she was a child. Over 49 years, her love hasn’t diminished. “I’ve enjoyed fitness and gymnastics all my life,” said Markou. “I’ve always owned a trampoline, and I’ve always had fun on it.”
Two years ago, Markou’s passion culminated in the form of a gym — JumpLife Gym, in New York City. JumpLife Gym is unique in the fact that the gym’s group exercise classes take place on mini trampolines.
Multiple times a week, Markou leads members through two classes; JumpDance, which focuses on cardio, and JumpGym, which focuses on cross training. During the classes, members hold on to a support bar attached to their trampoline, and reap the benefits of Markou’s jump-based workouts.
The benefits, such as better balance and lessening of joint pain, of which Markou said are plenty. “There’s so much research out there showing what trampolines do for the body, mind and soul,” said Markou.
Markou discovered these benefits after working with patients through her acupuncture and massage therapy clinic, Alquimia. According to Markou, many of her patients at Alquimia couldn’t execute traditional exercises. So, she rented out a nearby basement, and began working with clients on their fitness there, using trampolines. “It’s low impact, so it’s perfect for people who have physical limitations,” explained Markou.
After a year of holding classes in the rented basement, she moved JumpLife to Manhattan, and has seen great success — according to Markou, both JumpGym and JumpDance classes are continually wait-listed. “The classes are very popular!” said Markou.
Markou believes the classes are appealing due to their fun factor. “I wanted to make something that benefits everyone, and that’s a lot of fun,” she said. “The time goes by very fast during a JumpDance and JumpGym class.”
Markou said her goal is to open up another JumpLife Gym in the near future, and to continually focus on helping the community. “I want to give back to the community, and create something that everyone can see benefits from,” she said.
In addition, Markou said she’s working on creating a JumpLife group fitness class for kids. An inspiration she said was derived from the progress she saw children with disabilities gain, from working out on trampolines.
“I work with kids with disabilities such as ADHD, OCD, and have seen them really improve,” explained Markou. “Jumping on a trampoline keeps you very present and in the moment, which is why it’s good for kids with disabilities. It’s good for kids struggling with obesity as well, and those not drawn to traditional sports such as football or basketball. It keeps you grounded, in a sense, to the here and now.”
By Rachel Zabonick
