Over the last two years, I’ve become rather obsessed with jumping rope.
I read a blog about the benefits of working the whole body and how jumping rope burns a great deal of calories. I hadn’t jumped since I was a little kid. I was very out of practice. I purchased a fairly decent leather jump rope that featured weighted handles and began practicing. Initially, I frequently stepped on the rope, tripped on it or whacked myself in the calves. I’d get super tired and out of breath really quickly. I couldn’t jump for a full minute without needing a break. I steadily improved and started achieving new skills. I got where I could run with the rope and hop on one foot. I wore out two leather ropes. They knotted, frayed and ripped in half. I then decided to invest some more money for a higher quality set of ropes. I chose a jump rope system that provides one set of handles with interchangeable ropes. The ropes are different weights. Each rope offers a unique style of workout. I switch between them with ease. It takes a matter of second to work the clasp and attach a new rope to the handles. They swing very smoothly. Since buying the new ropes, I’ve accomplished more difficult skills, including crossovers and double-unders. I’ve gained enough stamina to jump for our full hour-long workout. Since I started jumping rope several times per week, I’ve lost weight, slimmed my legs and toned everything from biceps to calf muscles. I really enjoy the workout and am proud of my accomplishment. I’ve purchased sneakers that are designed for jumping rope. I’ve also bought a special mat that won’t slip or curl at the edges.