Last updated: January 2026 | Reading time: 9 minutes
You've had knee replacement surgery. The recovery has been challenging, and now you're looking for ways to stay active without risking your new joint. Someone mentioned rebounding — is it safe? When can you start? And how do you do it properly?
These are questions we hear regularly, and they deserve careful, informed answers. Let's look at what the evidence and clinical experience tell us about rebounding after knee replacement.
The Short Answer
Yes, rebounding can be safe and beneficial after knee replacement — but timing and technique matter enormously.
Most orthopaedic surgeons and physiotherapists agree that gentle rebounding can be an excellent low-impact exercise option once you've fully recovered from surgery. However, "fully recovered" typically means 3-6 months post-operation at minimum, and only with your surgeon's approval.
This isn't something to rush.
Why Rebounding Can Be Ideal After Knee Replacement
Once you're cleared for exercise, rebounding offers several advantages for people with knee replacements:
Dramatically Reduced Impact
Studies suggest rebounding reduces impact on joints by up to 80% compared to running on hard surfaces. The mat and suspension system absorb much of the force that would otherwise travel through your knees.
For a replaced knee, this matters. While modern prosthetics are remarkably durable, reducing unnecessary stress can help maximise their lifespan.
Controlled, Predictable Movement
Unlike walking on uneven ground or navigating stairs, rebounding happens on a consistent, predictable surface. You control the intensity. There are no unexpected kerbs, slopes, or obstacles to navigate.
This predictability is valuable when you're rebuilding confidence in your knee.
Builds Supporting Muscles
Rebounding engages the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles — all of which support your knee joint. Strengthening these muscles takes load off the knee itself and improves overall stability.
Improves Balance and Proprioception
After knee surgery, many people experience reduced proprioception — the sense of where your joint is in space. Gentle rebounding challenges your balance systems and can help restore this important feedback mechanism.
Weight-Bearing Without High Impact
Weight-bearing exercise is important for bone health, which matters after a period of reduced activity during recovery. Rebounding provides weight-bearing stimulus without the jarring impact of running or jumping.
When to Start: The Timeline
Every recovery is different, but here's a general framework. Always defer to your surgeon's specific guidance.
0-6 Weeks Post-Surgery
No rebounding. Focus on prescribed physiotherapy exercises, walking, and basic range-of-motion work. Your knee is still healing.
6-12 Weeks Post-Surgery
Still no rebounding. Continue physiotherapy. You may progress to swimming or stationary cycling if cleared. Your prosthetic is integrating with bone tissue — don't stress it.
3-6 Months Post-Surgery
Discuss with your surgeon. At your follow-up appointments, ask specifically about rebounding. If your recovery is progressing well, you may be cleared for very gentle bouncing.
6+ Months Post-Surgery
Most patients can begin gentle rebounding if recovery has been straightforward. Start extremely conservatively.
12+ Months Post-Surgery
Full rebounding typically safe for uncomplicated recoveries. You can gradually increase intensity, though high-impact jumping should still be avoided.
How to Start Rebounding After Knee Replacement
If you've been cleared by your surgeon, here's how to begin safely:
Week 1-2: Familiarisation
Start by simply standing on the rebounder without bouncing. Get used to the surface. Hold the wall or a support if needed.
Then try gentle weight shifts — transferring weight from one foot to the other without your feet leaving the mat. Do this for 2-3 minutes, twice daily.
Week 3-4: Minimal Bounce
Begin the "health bounce" — a very gentle bounce where your feet barely leave the mat. Think of it as bouncing on your toes rather than jumping.
- Start with 2-3 minutes
- Keep hold of a wall or stable surface initially
- Stop immediately if you feel any pain or instability
- Gradually release support as confidence builds
Week 5-8: Building Duration
Slowly increase your bouncing time:
- Week 5: 5 minutes daily
- Week 6: 7 minutes daily
- Week 7: 10 minutes daily
- Week 8: 10-15 minutes daily
Continue with gentle bouncing. This isn't the time for intensity.
Month 3+: Adding Variety
Once comfortable with basic bouncing, you can add:
- Gentle arm movements
- Slight weight shifts side to side
- Very small knee lifts
- Marching in place on the mat
Always progress gradually. If something causes discomfort, step back to the previous level.
Technique Tips for Replaced Knees
Keep Bounces Low
High bouncing increases landing force. Keep your feet close to the mat — you're aiming for rhythm, not height.
Maintain Soft Knees
Never lock your knees at the top of a bounce. Keep them slightly bent throughout the movement. This allows your muscles, rather than your joint, to absorb force.
Centre Your Weight
Stay balanced over the centre of the mat. Bouncing near the edge or at an angle increases stress on your joints and reduces the rebounder's shock absorption.
Use Support Initially
There's no shame in holding a wall, doorframe, or handlebar. Many rebounders come with optional stability bars for exactly this purpose. Use support until you're completely confident.
Listen to Your Body
Pain is a signal. Discomfort, swelling, or instability means you need to stop and reassess. A bit of muscle fatigue is normal; joint pain is not.
What to Avoid
Even when fully recovered, there are some movements to skip:
- High jumping — unnecessary stress on your prosthetic
- Twisting jumps — rotation under load is risky for knee replacements
- Single-leg bouncing — doubles the force through one joint
- Bouncing when fatigued — tired muscles can't protect joints properly
- Exercising through pain — this should be obvious, but it bears repeating
Choosing a Rebounder for Post-Surgery Use
If you're rebounding after knee replacement, equipment quality matters more than ever. Look for:
Bungee Suspension (Not Springs)
Elastic bungee cords provide a smoother, more controlled bounce than metal springs. This gentler deceleration is easier on joints. It also eliminates the "jarring" feeling at the bottom of each bounce that some spring rebounders have.
Stability
A wobbling rebounder increases the chance of awkward landings. Look for a solid frame with anti-slip feet. The mat should be taut and consistent across its surface.
Optional Handlebar
A stability bar can be invaluable in the early stages of rebounding after surgery. Some rebounders offer this as an add-on accessory.
Appropriate Size
A larger mat (110cm+) gives you more room for error and feels more secure than a cramped surface.
The BERG Fitness Trampoline 110 ticks these boxes: elastic band suspension for joint-friendly bouncing, a stable frame, and a 110cm diameter that provides confidence-inspiring space. While it doesn't include a handlebar, it's stable enough that most people can use a wall for initial support.
What the Research Says
Direct research on rebounding after knee replacement is limited, but related studies are encouraging:
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A 2019 study in the Journal of Arthroplasty found that low-impact exercise improved outcomes in knee replacement patients without increasing wear on prosthetics.
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Research on whole-body vibration platforms (similar mechanical principles to rebounding) has shown benefits for muscle strength and balance in post-surgical patients.
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The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends low-impact activities including "mini-trampoline" work for patients with knee replacements, once recovered.
Real Stories
We've heard from several customers who rebound after knee replacement:
"My surgeon was initially sceptical but agreed to let me try at 6 months post-op. Now at 18 months, I bounce for 15 minutes every morning. My knee has never felt better, and my physio says my muscle tone has improved significantly." — Margaret, 68, Birmingham
"I was worried I'd never exercise properly again after my replacement. The rebounder has been a game-changer — low impact but still a proper workout. I'm fitter now than before my surgery." — David, 72, Leeds
"Started very slowly at about 4 months, just standing on it really. Now I do 20 minutes most days. It's the only cardio that doesn't leave my knee aching." — Susan, 61, Bristol
When NOT to Rebound
Rebounding isn't suitable for everyone after knee replacement. Avoid or delay if:
- Your surgeon has advised against impact exercise
- You're experiencing ongoing pain, swelling, or instability
- You had complications during surgery or recovery
- You have other joint issues that might be aggravated
- Your prosthetic is a revision (second replacement) — these may have different guidelines
- You feel unsafe or unconfident on an unstable surface
Always prioritise your surgeon's specific advice over general guidelines.
The Bottom Line
Rebounding can be an excellent exercise option after knee replacement — once you're fully healed and cleared by your medical team. The combination of low impact, muscle strengthening, and balance training makes it particularly suitable for people with artificial joints.
The key is patience. Start later than you want to, progress slower than feels necessary, and listen to your body throughout. Your new knee can last 20+ years with proper care. A few extra weeks of caution at the start is a small price for decades of active living.
When you're ready, rebounding offers something rare: a genuine workout that your replaced knee will actually thank you for.
Important: This article is for general information only. Always consult your orthopaedic surgeon or physiotherapist before starting any new exercise after joint replacement surgery.
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