Jump Ropes

What to focus on when choosing a jump rope

Length

Most jump ropes can be shortened if needed. If you step on the jump rope and stand with your feet close together, the ends of the rope should be reaching your armpits. If the jump rope is too long, it strikes the ground hard with every jump, slowing you down. If the rope is too short, you risk tripping over it.

Material

• Plastic - lighter and slower jump ropes for beginners. It doesn’t hurt much if you stumble over it.
• Steel - the fastest jump ropes. Ideal for athletes who demand maximum performance.
• Leather - faster than plastic ropes, but slower and lighter than jump ropes made of steel. Popular among boxers, for instance.
• Cloth - ropes made of polyester, viscose or jute. Suitable for both beginners and advanced users. They are a bit faster than plastic models, but slower than leather ones (though it also depends on the type of fabric).

Jump rope types

• Classic
• CrossFit - allow you to perform intensive, high-speed exercises (these are generally made of steel). Often have extra weights in the handles.
• Smart - powered by a built-in rechargeable battery. These allow you to track your jumps, calories burned, and your heart rate. You can connect your smart jump rope with your smartphone and monitor your performance and improvement.
• Beaded - have a nylon inner cord, which acts as a weight. The extra weight is distributed along the whole length of the rope instead of on handles (common with CrossFit jump ropes.