Q&A for How to Jump Rope

Once you get a trick down, like a criss-cross, try doing it while turning the rope backwards to improve your skill.

Your wrists may ache at first but will get stronger over time. People are often surprised by how much of the motion is really in your wrists. Especially if you're doing speed — where you move the rope as quickly as you can — your wrists will do a lot of the work.

There's nothing to be afraid of. You can practice jumping without the rope.

To keep jumping, keep your balance and practice often. Push yourself to continue jumping until tired, then stop and rest. The next day, jump for longer, and keep pushing up the time you jump for each day, until you can keep jumping for as long as you like.

Try not to move your arms, and make a smaller movements. Reduce the gap between yourself and the rope. You can also try it with your friends without jumping and practice the movement of your wrist.

Yes, you do have to jump twice the speed of both ropes so you get over both at the same time.

Watch the rope till it reaches your feet. Try to jump right when it touches the ground. You can start slowly and increase your speed as you improve. When you get used to it, you will no longer have to watch the rope.

No, unless your shoes are hard or the ground is solid. Try not to jump on your tip toes, as it may injure your feet. It also depends on how fast you jump. Mostly the sounds would be the rope hitting the ground.

Although the exact origin of jump rope activity is unclear, some date jump roping to ancient China. However, the Western versions probably originated from 1600 A.D. in Egypt.

It is a combination of both. Use your arms to swing the rope up and under while using your wrists to keep it under control.

The best way is to jump in at the the time its on the ground when turning. You could get the turner to kneel down when you jump in or simply time it.

That is a pretty difficult trick to do, but, if you think you can do it, here's how. First, start jumping backwards. Then, when the rope is above your head, cross your wrists and continue to jump.

They should be available at exercise shops or online.

Put your hair in a ponytail, braids, or a bun before jumping rope.

No, it is not bad, but it is not usually the first way people learn to jump rope. If you want to pass the test, practice every day at home.

Not unless you are pregnant. If you are, you should consult with your doctor to find out whether or not this activity would be safe for you to complete.

Try to use your wrists when swinging, instead of your shoulders. You could also find some videos on the internet showing how to do it.

Keep practicing. Your balance and stamina will improve.

The best warm up is running a mile beforehand. If you can't do that, then 25 push ups should do. Same for the cool down.

A sports bra could aid you by keeping your breasts tight, removing the unpleasant bouncing and letting you focus on the body's movement.

The same methods apply. The upside is that if you jump rope on a routine basis, you'll get thinner!

If you skip too much, this can happen. You should rest for a couple days until it heals. Then, slowly get back into your habit of skipping rope.

Running shoes work well, but any well-fitting shoe designed for athletic activities should work!

Any jump rope that fits you is ideal. If you're jump-roping by yourself, then get a jump rope that isn't too big or too small. If you're jump-roping with friends, get a large jump rope that'll fit the number of people, such as the 16 footer.

Many people use jump rope as a cardio warmup, or an effective and fun way to burn calories. The more dedicated do the sport competitively.

Generally jumping with a mat is always a good idea to prevent injury, as the surface is bouncier than most floors. You do not need one to jump rope successfully, however, if one is available it is always a good idea to use it.

It is best to jump on a solid surface because it creates a more stable place to land. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, otherwise your feet may be in pain afterwards. If you hurt your feet and continue to feel discomfort for a few days, be sure to contact you doctor and let them know the problem.

No. Jump roping is a great sport to help you get moving physically. You may not be jumping super high, but even if you mildly do it for a few minutes every day, it's good for your physical health.

That's quite unlikely, but if you're really concerned, consult with a doctor.

Yes. Such a fear has nothing to do with jumping rope.