Jump Rope Basics

Jumping rope is a great way to get a hard core cardio workout with little effort. Here are some tips that will help you "jump start" an easy exercise.

• Jump one to two inches off the floor, giving the rope just enough space to slip under your feet. Only the balls of your feet should touch the floor.
• Keep your elbows close to your sides as you turn the rope. The movement comes from the wrists and forearms, not your shoulders.
• If you tire out before you finish a full workout, drop the rope, but keep arms and legs going. Work up to using the rope full-time.
• To find a rope that fits you, place one foot in the center of the rope and lift the handles. They shouldn't go past your armpits.

Try to remember these tips the next time you get ready to jump. Keep a look out for my next entry, "Skip Yourself into a Smaller Size".

Tips Found In: Fitness Magazine, July 2005