10 Benefits of Mini Trampoline WorkoutsThe Ultimate Guide to Rebounding Exercise [2024]

Ready to revolutionize your fitness routine in 2024? Mini trampoline workouts, also known as rebounding, are taking the fitness world by storm – and for good reason. NASA research reveals that rebounding is 68% more efficient than jogging, making it one of the most effective low-impact exercises you can do. This fun, space-saving workout not only transforms your fitness level but also provides remarkable health benefits that extend far beyond simple calorie burning. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking to diversify your routine or someone seeking a joint-friendly exercise option, rebounding could be your game-changer. From boosting your lymphatic system to improving bone density, this comprehensive guide will explore 10 science-backed benefits that make mini trampoline workouts a must-try exercise in 2024. Ready to bounce your way to better health? Let’s dive into the transformative world of rebounding exercise.

Key Takeaways:

  • – NASA-backed research confirms that rebounding is 68% more efficient than traditional jogging, making it an optimal choice for low-impact cardio workouts.
  • – This versatile exercise form provides comprehensive health benefits, from enhancing lymphatic circulation and supporting weight loss to improving overall health and mental well-being.
  • – Rebounding is particularly joint-friendly, making it suitable for all body types and fitness levels while delivering a full upper body workout and lower body conditioning.
  • – The exercise requires minimal space and can be easily incorporated into a home workout system, making it an accessible option for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
  • – Quality equipment matters – look for a highest quality trampoline with a sturdy steel frame and proper spring system (tube spring or bungee cord) for safe, effective workouts.

Understanding Rebounding Exercise

Rebounding exercise has emerged as a revolutionary way to transform your fitness routine. This unique form of aerobic exercise involves performing various movements on a mini trampoline, combining cardiovascular benefits with strength training.

What Makes Rebounding Special?

Unlike traditional workouts, rebounding offers a low-impact cardio experience that’s gentle on your joints while delivering impressive results. The bouncing motion creates a unique gravitational effect that engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously, making it an efficient full-body workout.

The Evolution of Mini Trampoline Workouts

What started as a simple recreational activity has evolved into a popular form of aerobic exercise. Today, fitness enthusiasts worldwide incorporate rebounding into their routines, from gentle bouncing for beginners to dynamic movements for advanced users.

Key Components of Rebounding

– Controlled bouncing movements

– Dynamic balance exercises

– Aerobic sequences

– Core-strengthening motions

– Coordination drills

The beauty of rebounding lies in its adaptability – you can adjust the intensity and complexity of movements based on your fitness level and goals. Whether you’re looking to improve cardiovascular health, enhance balance, or simply add variety to your workout routine, rebounding offers a versatile solution.

💡 (Key takeaway)Rebounding exercise is a versatile, low-impact aerobic workout performed on a mini trampoline that combines cardiovascular benefits with full-body strengthening.

The Science Behind Mini Trampoline Workouts

The unique combination of acceleration, deceleration, and gravity during mini trampoline workouts creates an extraordinary physiological response in your body. When you bounce, every cell experiences increased G-force, ranging from zero at the top of the bounce to up to 3-4 times normal gravity at the bottom.

Understanding G-Force Impact

The alternating weightlessness and increased gravitational pull strengthens your cells from the inside out. This cellular stimulation enhances your body’s natural healing and regenerative processes, making rebounding a highly efficient form of exercise.

NASA’s Groundbreaking Research

NASA’s landmark study revealed that rebounding is 68% more effective than jogging on a treadmill for the same amount of time. Their research showed that trampoline exercise efficiently distributes the G-force across your body, reducing pressure on your ankles and knees while maximizing cardiovascular benefits.

Biomechanical Benefits

The vertical acceleration and deceleration create a pump-like action in your body. This unique movement pattern:

– Strengthens muscle fibers and bone density

– Improves balance and coordination

– Enhances proprioception (body awareness)

– Stimulates all internal organs

The Three-Dimensional Workout Effect

Unlike traditional exercises that typically work in one plane of motion, rebounding engages your body in all three planes:

– Sagittal (forward/backward)

– Frontal (side to side)

– Transverse (rotational)

This multi-directional movement pattern creates a more comprehensive workout, engaging more muscle groups and improving overall functional fitness.

💡 (Key takeaway)Mini trampoline workouts leverage gravitational forces and multi-directional movement to create a scientifically proven, highly effective full-body exercise experience.

Health Benefits of Rebounding

Rebounding exercise offers a remarkable array of health benefits that make it an exceptional choice for overall wellness. This unique form of exercise harnesses the power of gravitational forces to create a full-body workout that’s both gentle and effective.

Physical Health Benefits

The rhythmic bouncing motion strengthens your muscles and bones while being incredibly gentle on your joints. Unlike high-impact exercises like running, rebounding reduces the stress on your ankles, knees, and hips by up to 80%. This makes it an ideal choice for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Regular rebounding sessions can help improve your balance, coordination, and posture. The constant need to maintain stability while bouncing engages your core muscles and enhances your proprioception – your body’s ability to sense its position in space.

Metabolic and Cellular Benefits

At a cellular level, rebounding creates an environment where every cell in your body experiences increased gravitational forces. This unique G-force effect helps strengthen cells and promotes cellular repair and regeneration. The alternating pressure and release during bouncing help stimulate your metabolism and enhance cellular oxygenation.

Immune System Support

One of the most significant advantages of rebounding is its impact on the lymphatic system. The bouncing motion creates a pump-like effect that helps move lymph fluid through your body more efficiently. This enhanced lymphatic circulation helps:

– Remove toxins and waste products

– Support immune system function

– Reduce inflammation

– Improve overall cellular health

Weight Management Benefits

For those focused on weight management, rebounding provides an efficient way to burn calories. A 30-minute session can burn anywhere between 150-210 calories, depending on your intensity level. The best part? The fun, low-impact nature of rebounding makes it easier to stick to your fitness routine.

(Key takeawayRebounding exercise delivers comprehensive health benefits by combining cardiovascular fitness, lymphatic system support, and cellular strengthening while remaining gentle on joints and highly effective for weight management.)

Cardiovascular and Weight Management

Regular rebounding sessions can significantly boost your cardiovascular fitness while aiding in weight management. This low-impact exercise effectively increases your heart rate, helping you burn calories more efficiently than traditional cardio workouts.

Calorie-Burning Potential

A 30-minute rebounding session can burn anywhere between 150-210 calories, depending on your intensity level and body weight. The constant gravitational changes during bouncing force your body to work harder, resulting in increased metabolic rate even after your workout.

Heart Health Benefits

Rebounding strengthens your heart muscle and improves blood circulation throughout your body. Studies show that consistent mini trampoline workouts can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Metabolic Boost

The unique combination of resistance and aerobic exercise in rebounding helps boost your metabolism. This increased metabolic rate continues for several hours post-workout, contributing to more effective weight management and a healthy lifestyle.

💡 (Key takeaway)Mini trampoline workouts provide an efficient way to improve cardiovascular health while supporting weight management through increased calorie burn and metabolic boost.

Lymphatic System and Detoxification

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining our body’s health, and rebounding provides a unique way to stimulate this vital system. When you bounce on a mini trampoline, the alternating weightlessness and gravity create a pumping action that helps move lymph fluid throughout your body.

This gentle bouncing motion acts like a natural cleansing mechanism, helping your body flush out toxins and waste products more efficiently. The up-and-down movement creates a pressure change that opens and closes lymphatic valves simultaneously, increasing lymph fluid circulation by up to 15-30 times.

Research shows that just 10 minutes of rebounding can significantly boost lymphatic circulation, making it more effective than an hour of jogging for detoxification purposes. This enhanced circulation also helps strengthen your immune system, making you more resistant to illness and infection.

Additionally, the increased lymphatic flow helps reduce inflammation throughout your body, which can lead to improved skin health and reduced water retention. Many users report feeling more energized and mentally clear after regular rebounding sessions, likely due to this improved detoxification process.

💡 (Key takeaway)Rebounding exercise enhances lymphatic circulation and natural detoxification processes, leading to improved immune function and overall wellness.

Joint and Muscle Benefits

Rebounding exercises offer remarkable benefits for your joints and muscles, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a low-impact yet effective workout. Unlike traditional high-impact exercises, mini trampoline workouts reduce stress on your joints by up to 80%.

The bouncing motion engages your entire body, particularly targeting the lower body muscles. Your leg muscles, including calves, quadriceps, and hamstrings, get a thorough workout with each bounce. The unstable surface of the trampoline also forces your core muscles to constantly engage, helping improve balance and stability.

Key Muscle Groups Targeted

– Core muscles (abdominals and lower back)

– Leg muscles (calves, quads, hamstrings)

– Glutes and hip flexors

– Shoulder and arm muscles during arm movements

The gentle bouncing motion helps lubricate your joints while strengthening the surrounding muscles. This makes rebounding an excellent exercise option for people with joint issues or those recovering from injuries.

(Key takeawayMini trampoline workouts provide comprehensive joint and muscle benefits while minimizing impact, making it an ideal exercise choice for people of all fitness levels.)

Mental and Cognitive Advantages

Research shows that rebounding exercises offer remarkable mental and cognitive benefits that extend far beyond physical fitness. The rhythmic bouncing motion stimulates the release of endorphins, your body’s natural mood enhancers, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.

The gentle up-and-down movement during trampoline workouts improves blood flow to the brain, enhancing mental clarity and focus. This increased circulation helps deliver more oxygen to brain cells, supporting better cognitive function and memory retention.

Many rebounders report experiencing a natural energy boost after their sessions. The combination of physical activity and improved circulation creates a refreshing mental state, making it an excellent way to combat afternoon fatigue or start your day with renewed vigor.

Regular rebounding sessions can also improve spatial awareness and balance, which directly impacts cognitive processing and decision-making abilities. The constant need to maintain equilibrium while bouncing engages multiple brain regions, promoting neural plasticity and overall brain health.

💡 (Key takeaway)Mini trampoline workouts enhance mental well-being through improved brain circulation, stress reduction, and cognitive function enhancement.

Choosing the Right Mini Trampoline

Selecting the perfect mini trampoline is crucial for a safe and effective rebounding workout routine. When investing in this versatile piece of fitness equipment, several key factors deserve your attention.

Frame Construction and Durability

A high-quality steel frame model ensures stability and longevity. Look for frames with rust-resistant coating and sturdy leg construction. The best mini trampolines feature reinforced joints and can support weights between 250-300 pounds, making them suitable for most users.

Bounce Surface Quality

The jumping mat’s quality significantly impacts your workout experience. Premium models use polypropylene or Permatron materials that offer consistent bounce and durability. The mat should be taut enough to provide controlled rebounds while maintaining enough give for joint protection.

Spring System Options

You’ll encounter two main spring types:

– Traditional metal springsOffer excellent bounce but require regular maintenance

– Bungee cordsProvide quieter operation and gentler rebounds, ideal for apartment dwellers

Size Considerations

Mini trampolines typically range from 36 to 48 inches in diameter. Consider your:

– Available space dimensions

– Storage requirements

– Intended use (basic bouncing vs. advanced movements)

– Height and weight requirements

A 40-inch diameter often provides the sweet spot between functionality and space efficiency for most home users.

(Key takeawayChoose a mini trampoline that balances quality construction, appropriate size, and spring system with your specific needs and space constraints.)

Quality and Construction

When investing in a mini trampoline, understanding its construction elements is crucial for both safety and longevity. A high-quality rebounder consists of several key components that work together to provide a stable and effective workout platform.

Frame Construction

The foundation of any good rebounder is its frame. Look for models with heavy-duty steel frames that can support at least 250-300 pounds. The frame should feature a rust-resistant coating to ensure durability, especially if you plan to use it outdoors occasionally.

Spring System Options

Mini trampolines typically come with two types of spring systems:

– Traditional metal springsOffer excellent bounce and durability

– Bungee cordsProvide quieter operation and gentler resistance

Mat Material Quality

The jumping mat should be made from high-grade polypropylene or Permatron material. Premium mats feature UV-resistant properties and reinforced stitching at stress points, ensuring they won’t deteriorate with regular use.

Stability Features

Quality rebounders include:

– Non-slip rubber feet for secure placement

– Screw-in legs for added stability

– Welded joints rather than bolted connections

– Even weight distribution design

Remember to check the warranty coverage, as reputable manufacturers typically offer longer warranties on higher-quality models.

(Key takeawayA well-constructed mini trampoline features a sturdy steel frame, quality spring system, durable mat material, and essential stability features that ensure safe and effective workouts.)

Space and Storage Considerations

When setting up your mini trampoline for home workouts, smart space planning and storage solutions are crucial for a hassle-free exercise routine. A standard mini trampoline typically requires a floor space of 40-45 inches in diameter, plus additional clearance for safe movement.

Ceiling Height Requirements

Ensure your workout area has adequate ceiling height – typically 8 feet or more. This allows enough room for jumping without risk of head injury. For basement setups, watch out for low-hanging pipes or light fixtures.

Room Layout Tips

Position your rebounder away from walls and furniture, leaving at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides. Choose a spot with good ventilation and, if possible, near a window for natural light and fresh air during workouts.

Storage Solutions

Many modern rebounders feature:

– Fold-in-half design for compact storage

– Quick-release legs for easy assembly

– Carrying bags for portability

– Wall-mounting options when not in use

Surface Considerations

Place your mini trampoline on:

– Level, solid flooring

– Non-slip mats for extra stability

– Away from carpet edges or rugs

– Well-ventilated areas to prevent moisture buildup

(Key takeawayA well-planned 6×6 foot space with proper ceiling height and smart storage solutions ensures safe and convenient mini trampoline workouts at home.)

Getting Started with Rebounding

Starting your rebounding journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach and mindset, you can gradually build your confidence and skill level on a mini trampoline.

Setting Up Your Space

Find a flat, level surface with enough clearance above your head for jumping. Ensure there’s at least 2 feet of clear space around your rebounder. Place your trampoline away from walls, furniture, or other obstacles to prevent accidents during workouts.

Initial Warm-Up Routine

Begin with a gentle 5-minute warm-up to prepare your body:

– March in place while holding the stability bar

– Perform small, controlled bounces

– Alternate lifting your knees

– Do gentle ankle and hip rotations

Building Your Foundation

Start with 5-10 minute sessions and gradually increase duration as your stamina improves. Focus on maintaining balance and proper posture – keep your core engaged, shoulders relaxed, and gaze forward.

Remember that consistency matters more than intensity when you’re beginning. Even gentle yet effective movement on your rebounder can yield significant benefits. The most important thing is to listen to your body and progress at your own pace.

Establishing a Routine

Create a sustainable workout schedule:

– Aim for 3-4 sessions per week

– Start with morning sessions when energy levels are high

– Keep sessions short but regular

– Track your progress to stay motivated

As you become more comfortable with basic bouncing, you can gradually incorporate more dynamic movements and longer workout durations.

(Key takeawayBegin your rebounding journey with proper setup, gentle movements, and consistent practice while focusing on proper form and gradual progression.)

Basic Techniques for Beginners

Starting your rebounding journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is to begin with gentle yet effective movements that help you find your balance and build confidence on the mini trampoline.

Finding Your Balance

Stand with your feet hip-width apart in the center of the trampoline. Keep your core engaged and maintain good posture. Start with small, controlled bounces while keeping your feet in contact with the mat. This helps you get a better bounce and feel comfortable with the trampoline’s response.

Basic Bouncing Pattern

The most important thing is to master the health bounce – a gentle up-and-down movement where your feet barely leave the mat. Focus on pushing down through your heels and maintaining a steady rhythm. This foundational move helps activate your lymphatic system and improves coordination.

Proper Form Tips

– Keep your knees slightly bent

– Look straight ahead, not down at your feet

– Let your arms move naturally at your sides

– Breathe steadily throughout the movement

– Stay centered on the trampoline mat

💡 (Key takeaway)Master the fundamentals of rebounding by starting with gentle bounces and maintaining proper form before progressing to more advanced movements.

Advanced Moves and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic bouncing techniques, it’s time to challenge yourself with more dynamic movements that provide a full upper body workout. These advanced variations will help you maximize the benefits of your rebounding routine.

High-Intensity Moves

Take your workout to the next level with jumping jacks, high knees, and twist jumps. These harder moves engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously while boosting your heart rate. Remember to maintain control and proper form throughout each movement.

Core-Focused Exercises

Incorporate seated bounces, knee tucks, and pike jumps to target your core muscles. These exercises are particularly effective for strengthening your abdominal muscles and improving overall stability. Start with shorter intervals and gradually increase duration as your body type adapts.

Combination Sequences

Create flowing sequences by combining different moves like twist-jumps into knee tucks, or jumping jacks into pike jumps. These combinations not only make your workout more challenging but also help improve coordination and agility.

(Key takeawayAdvanced rebounding moves combine dynamic movements with proper form to create an effective full-body workout while maintaining the low-impact nature of trampoline exercise.)

Safety Guidelines and Precautions

Safety is paramount when engaging in any form of exercise, including rebounding. Let’s explore essential guidelines to ensure a safe and effective workout experience.

Proper Equipment Setup

Position your mini trampoline on a flat, hard surface away from walls and obstacles. Ensure all parts are securely fastened before each use. Regular equipment checks can prevent accidents and knee injury.

Pre-Workout Considerations

Start with a proper warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints. Wear supportive athletic shoes with good grip to maintain stability. If you have any pre-existing conditions, consult your healthcare provider before starting.

During Exercise

Maintain proper posture with your core engaged and eyes forward. Start with gentle bounces and gradually increase intensity. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. This is one of the most common health benefits of mindful exercise.

Post-Workout Care

Cool down properly after your session. Stay hydrated and stretch to prevent muscle soreness. If you experience any unusual pain or discomfort, stop exercising and seek medical advice.

💡 (Key takeaway)Following proper safety guidelines ensures you can enjoy the benefits of rebounding while minimizing the risk of injury.

Expert Insights and Research

The field of rebounding exercise has garnered significant attention from health professionals and researchers alike, offering compelling evidence of its effectiveness as a comprehensive workout method.

Scientific Research Findings

NASA’s groundbreaking study revealed that rebounding is 68% more efficient than jogging, with astronauts using mini trampolines for rehabilitation after space missions. This research demonstrated how the increased G-force during bouncing helps strengthen cells and boost oxygen capacity.

Recent studies by the American Council on Exercise (ACE) have shown that a 20-minute rebounding session can burn as many calories as running at 6 mph. The research also indicated improved balance and coordination among participants who regularly engaged in rebounding exercises.

Expert Opinions from Medical Professionals

Dr. Melissa Leber, Director of Emergency Department Sports Medicine at Mount Sinai Health System, emphasizes the unique benefits of rebounding for joint health. She notes that the trampoline’s elastic surface reduces impact by up to 80% compared to exercising on hard surfaces.

Colette Dong, cofounder of the renowned Tribeca trampoline-cardio studio, highlights how rebounding has evolved into a mainstream fitness trend. She points out that the combination of cardiovascular benefits and low impact makes it particularly appealing to those with joint concerns or recovering from injuries.

Industry Recognition

The American College of Sports Medicine has recognized rebounding as an effective form of aerobic exercise, particularly noting its benefits for:

– Cardiovascular health improvement

– Balance enhancement

– Core strength development

– Coordination refinement

Physical therapists increasingly recommend rebounding as part of rehabilitation programs, citing its gentle yet effective approach to rebuilding strength and stability.

(Key takeawayExpert research and professional endorsements validate rebounding as an efficient, science-backed exercise method that offers multiple health benefits while minimizing impact on joints.)

Professional Recommendations

Leading fitness experts and medical professionals consistently endorse mini trampoline workouts as an effective exercise method. Dr. Melissa Leber from Mount Sinai Health System emphasizes that rebounding provides exceptional cardiovascular benefits while being gentle on joints.

Expert Opinions on Rebounding Benefits

Colette Dong, co-founder of the renowned Tribeca trampoline-cardio studio, notes that just 20 minutes of rebounding can burn as many calories as a 30-minute run. She particularly recommends it for those recovering from injuries or seeking low-impact alternatives to traditional cardio.

Medical Professional Insights

Physical therapists often prescribe rebounding exercises for rehabilitation. They highlight its effectiveness in:

– Building core strength without straining the back

– Improving balance and coordination

– Enhancing proprioception (body awareness)

– Supporting post-injury recovery

Trainer-Recommended Workout Duration

Fitness professionals suggest starting with 10-minute sessions and gradually increasing to 20-30 minutes. According to experts, consistency matters more than duration – three 10-minute sessions can be as beneficial as one 30-minute workout.

Professional Safety Guidelines

Certified trainers recommend:

– Always warming up before intense bouncing

– Maintaining proper posture throughout sessions

– Starting with basic bounces before advancing

– Listening to your body and adjusting intensity accordingly

(Key takeawayHealth and fitness professionals widely endorse rebounding as a safe, effective exercise method suitable for various fitness levels and goals.)

Scientific Studies and Evidence

Recent scientific research has consistently validated the effectiveness of rebounding exercise, particularly through groundbreaking studies conducted by NASA. Their research revealed that rebounding is 68% more efficient than jogging, making it a superior form of cardiovascular exercise.

A study published in the International Journal of Sports Science showed that regular mini trampoline workouts can improve bone density by up to 20% in just 12 weeks. This new way of exercising has gained significant attention in the scientific community for its unique ability to stimulate bone formation through controlled impact.

Key Research Findings

– A 2023 study in the Journal of Sports Medicine found that 20 minutes of rebounding burns as many calories as 30 minutes of running

– Research from the American Council on Exercise confirms that rebounding can improve balance and coordination by 30%

– Clinical trials demonstrate a 40% increase in lymphatic fluid circulation during rebounding sessions

Impact on Home Fitness

The home workout system trend has been further validated by research during the pandemic. Studies show that people who incorporated rebounding into their home routines maintained better fitness levels compared to those using traditional equipment.

The resounding trend in scientific literature points to mini trampoline workouts as a comprehensive exercise solution, combining cardiovascular benefits with muscle strengthening in a single, efficient workout modality.

(Key takeawayScientific studies, including NASA research, consistently prove that rebounding is a highly effective exercise method that offers superior benefits compared to traditional workouts.)

Conclusion

As we bounce to the end of our mini trampoline journey, it’s clear that rebounding offers a unique blend of fun and fitness. From boosting cardiovascular health to enhancing lymphatic circulation, this low-impact workout packs a powerful punch. Remember, consistency is key to reaping the full benefits of rebounding. Start small, listen to your body, and gradually increase your workout intensity. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just starting your wellness journey, a mini trampoline can be your springboard to better health. So why wait? Take the leap and incorporate rebounding into your routine. Your body and mind will thank you for it. Ready to transform your fitness regimen? Bounce over to our recommended mini trampolines and start your rebounding adventure today. Your path to a healthier, more energetic you is just a jump away!

FAQs

How long should a beginner’s mini trampoline workout session last?

For beginners, start with 10-15 minutes per session, 3 times a week. As your fitness level improves, gradually increase the duration to 20-30 minutes. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. This gentle yet effective movement allows your body to adapt to this new way of exercising.

Can I use a mini trampoline if I have back problems?

While rebounding exercise is generally low impact, consult your healthcare provider first if you have back issues. Many people with mild back problems find mini trampoline workouts beneficial as they strengthen core muscles and improve posture, but proper form is crucial for safety.

Is rebounding exercise suitable for seniors?

Yes, rebounding is an excellent low-impact workout for seniors. Start with basic bouncing while holding the handlebar for stability. The gentle bouncing motion helps improve balance, bone density, and overall health without putting excessive stress on joints.

How many calories can I burn during a mini trampoline workout?

A 30-minute moderate-intensity trampoline workout can burn between 150-210 calories, depending on your body type and exercise intensity. High-intensity rebounding sessions can burn up to 300 calories per half hour, making it an effective weight loss exercise option.

Can I do mini trampoline workouts while pregnant?

It’s recommended to avoid rebounding during pregnancy, especially if you’re new to this type of exercise. The unstable surface and bouncing motion could pose risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine during pregnancy.

What’s the difference between bungee cord and spring trampolines?

Bungee cord trampolines offer a softer, more controlled bounce and are generally quieter than spring models. They provide better shock absorption and are often more durable. Spring trampolines typically offer a firmer bounce and may be more affordable but require more maintenance.

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