The last time you used a jump rope was probably when you were a kid in the school playground and you might not have touched one since. (Perhaps you got close after watching a “Rocky” movie starring Sylvester Stallone!) When most people think of high-intensity exercise, skipping probably won’t be the first thing that comes to mind, but it should be right up there.
Skipping is a great, cardio activity that can act as a high-intensity full-body workout that’s also a great alternative to running for those who may not have the time or space. It’s a staple exercise for any boxer whether it be a low-level amateur, or a superstar like Anthony Joshua and there’s good reason for that. This article will explain the many benefits of skipping and how it could be the perfect form of exercise for you. So let’s jump to it with Skipping for Fitness and Weight Loss: 5 Reasons Why You Should Try it!
1. Top Tier Calorie Burner
Skipping is one of the best calorie-burning activities out there. An hour of high-intensity skipping is said to burn around 1300 calories. Moreover, 10-minutes of skipping is considered to have the equivalent effect of running an 8-minute mile.
Attaining a calorie deficit is the main rule of losing weight and with the high-calorie burning efficiency of skipping, with a little practice, it could be a pivotal asset in reaching your fitness goals.
2. Can Reduce the Risk of Foot & Ankle Injury
Skipping helps strengthen and improve the elasticity of your calves. Having strong calves is essential in reducing the risk of foot and ankle injury by being able to efficiently absorb heavy or moderately sudden impact forces, taking away excessive stress from the knee and ankle joints. Therefore, skipping can act as a protective exercise against injuries such as plantar fasciitis, calf strains and Achilles tendonitis.
3. Builds Heightened Sense of Coordination
In order to get the best out of a good skipping workout, you need good rhythm. This requires the coordination between your hands, eyes and feet. As you progress with more and more sessions you will develop better coordination resulting in a steadier and regular cadence. As a result, you will jump faster and maybe even start doing more complex manoeuvres that will even further develop a synchronised connection between your brain (mind) and your body.
4. Inexpensive & Portable
One of the advantages of skipping is the convenience. In terms of the cost, it is a very low investment with a decent skipping rope costing between £2-5. This can increase with the quality of the rope and handle or whether it’s weighted or unweighted, but the price will rarely break the bank. Furthermore, they take up virtually no space and they’re very portable which means you can exercise anytime and anywhere.
5. Improved Cognitive Function
Can skipping really improve your brain (or mind) health? Yes of course it can! Skipping involves learning new motor patterns which improves the communication between your mind/brain and nervous system. While exercising, your mind has to quickly process factors such as rope speed, direction and position in order to attain a continuous rhythm. As you advance your skills, your cognitive function follows suit, enhancing the mind-brain-muscle connection.
Skipping could be the perfect way to add variation to your exercise routine and is a smart and effective way to burn calories. In addition, it also tones your legs, tightens your core and helps develop stamina – all important areas for getting the most from your physical, health and fitness potential! What do you think of skipping or jumping rope as a workout? Let us know in the comments below and join in the conversation on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!
