With the potential to burn up to 1,300 calories per hour, jumping rope is more than a past time among school children. The popularity of jumping rope has increased over the years as it has been shown to be very effective for achieving and maintaining overall health and fitness. Jump roping exists in many different forms and has prevailed as a versatile, fun and entertaining physical activity.
The Beginning
The origin of jumping rope is a mystery. The first concrete evidence of jump rope comes from Medieval European paintings of kids jumping rope through the street. The Jump Rope Institutes notes that jumping rope may have originated from China or Egypt in 1600 AD. Some of the first jump ropers in America were Dutch and thus popularized the form of jump roping called Double Dutch.
The Evolution of Jump Rope
Jump rope is traditionally played with two individuals swinging a rope in a a circle while players take turns jumping while singing or chanting. Jumping rope can be done alone and can also be done while performing tricks. Today, there are several professional jump rope competitions where individuals perform difficult rope manipulations, jump using intricate footwork and perform skillful tricks.
Jump Roping for Fitness
During the fitness craze that erupted in the 1970s, the popularity of jump roping soared as it was incorporated into a number of workouts and fitness routines. Jumping rope has become a part of several well-known pilates, kick boxing, yoga, boot camp and boxing programs. Physical therapists also use jump roping to help strengthen the muscles and bones in individuals with knee and ankle injuries.
Jump Rope and the Body
When it comes physical activity, jumping rope is an effective way to help get in shape and tone muscles. According to an article published in Science Daily, individuals who jump rope are likely to face less damage to the knees than runners as the impact from each jump is absorbed by the ball of the foot instead of the heels. Jumping rope is also good for strengthening and toning the arms, agility and muscular endurance.
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