Child's play and cardio classic

Rope jumping is a superb calorie-burning whole-body exercise, takes inexpensive equipment and can be done almost anywhere. Here are tips to getting started.

Get basics right
Crosstrainers or aerobic shoes in good condition are basic gear. Do try to skip on a level natural surface instead of concrete as, no matter how good the cushioning in your shoe, the jar of a hard surface will impact your knees.

At right length
The rule of thumb is pretty simple: The handles of the rope need to reach as high as your armpits when you step on centre of rope and pull it taut.

Get the form right
Loosen shoulders and hold elbows in as you jump; use wrists, not arms, to turn the rope. If you tighten your muscles, you will tire quickly while risking injury.

Mix it up
Start with basic hopping and then look for different variations to spice up your routine. Fancy ropework takes years to come about so don't get disheartened.

NOTE: Men over 40 and women over 50 who are sedentary should check with a doctor before starting rope jumping

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