Trampolines can keep you from getting the common cold - elementary my dear Watson

Can trampolines really keep a person from getting the common cold? It sounds a bit of a stretch at first, but the science could actually be there as pointed out by Sherlock Holmes on the popular television drama "Elementary". Sherlock Holmes is the eccentric character played by actor Jonny Lee Miller. Jonny Lee Miller was formerly married to Angelina Jolie and the two actors are still good friends.

​In the episode titled "No Appointment" of the 4th season of the show, Dr. Joan Watson (played by Lucy Liu) finds Sherlock bouncing on a mini trampoline and asks the obvious question, "What's with the trampoline?". The following dialog ensues:


Watson: What's with the trampoline?

Sherlock: It really is shocking what they don't teach you in medical school.

Watson: Okay, forget I asked.

Sherlock: The lymphatic system, unlike the cardiovascular system, has no pumping capability; it relies on muscular contraction.

Sherlock: Bouncing up and down is effective, because it stimulates the system's one-way valves to open and close simultaneously.

Watson: You're increasing lymph flow to boost your immunity to keep your sinuses clear-- got it.

Sherlock: Seemed like a wise choice.

Watson: Why? Are you getting a cold?

Sherlock: Not yet, but we live in close quarters and I detected a phlegmy rattle in your voice last night.

Watson: I feel fine.

Sherlock: Do you?