My Skipping Journey from the First Five Months
After sharing a video (see below) on social media of my jumping rope results after five months, I appreciate receiving encouraging words and a few questions. I thought sharing the tools and techniques I used in my jump roping journey might be helpful for some.
I'll start with the most frequent question from the jump (pun intended) was about the app I used to track my routine, as demonstrated in the video.
Seconds Interval Timer—As described, I found it the best high-intensity interval and circuit training tool for tracking workouts. It is extremely customizable.
What rope should I get? What about length?
I started with and am still using a 1/4 lb PVC rope. The extra weight will help you feel the rope as you rotate it around you.
Length? While you're stepping on your rope, the ends of it (where the rope meets your handle) should be around the bottom of your sternum (breastbone). Pro-tip: before permanently cutting your rope, make a knot on both ends as you test out the length for a few days.
Sources: Lauren Jumps, Always Ghadi, Dayan Kole
Just starting? Here are a few basic reminders:
It's still a workout. Make sure you stretch before and after to reduce the risk of injury.
Start slow. A few minutes every couple of days is a great start to gradually skip nearly every day (remember rest days!). I don't focus on how long I skip; I focus on how many calories I have time to burn. A tracker like an Apple Watch helps, of course.
Skipping is a full-body workout. When I started, my core was sore (especially since I had done very little activity before). Strengthening your core is part of the journey.
What helpful techniques worked for you?
When I first started learning, I curated this YouTube playlist of inspiring influencers and short video stories. Hope it's helpful for you.
I thought listening to music would help me stay inspired. It turned out to be distracting cause I tried to skip to the beat. I mostly listen to podcasts to get my news intake. And on days when I'm struggling to get inspiration to work out, I allow myself to watch a streaming episode of a fav show. #whateverworks
Keep your arms and hands close to the body. It makes for shorter rope and smaller swings.
Keep your jump small. Harder at first, for sure. But aim for it.
I hope sharing my journey is helpful. Getting positive feedback and words of encouragement is reciprocal.