Dear Sarah,
I see many people at the gym jumping with ropes. It looks like fun; I remember doing it as as a child. What are the benefits of jumping rope and what is the best way to get started?
Thanks,
Lisa

Dear Lisa,
Jumping rope is one of the most inexpensive and oldest forms of exercise dating as far back as the Egyptians who used vines as jump ropes and it's no wonder because it's one of the best whole body workouts you can get. And if you do it the right way, your body will take less of beating than it does when you jog.

And jumping rope is the perfect alternative to any cardio activity-it quickly raises core body temperature, which also makes it an excellent choice for a quick warm-up.

Jumping rope is a skilled movement that requires good form in the take off and landing, proper timing and a little coordination to make the rope swing with each jump.

The jump should be no higher than one inch off the ground; this makes it a safe low impact exercise. (Most injuries occur in the knees, ankles and feet from jumping too high and landing heavily on the feet). The best floor to jump on is a sprung floor. At your gym, the fitness studio most likely has a sprung floor - if you are not sure, ask. If you choose to jump outside, use the grass instead of the driveway. (I know we all jumped on the tarmac as kids, but we are much bigger now and must be cautious about impact)

Jumping helps you develop almost every area of your, body especially your heart. Your heart is the most important muscle in your body as it pumps blood to every cell delivering the oxygen and nutrients needed to stay alive and healthy. Jumping is also a multi-joint exercise as it incorporates every muscle in the body as well as trimming legs and waistlines. At 10 calories a minute, jumping is one of the most efficient methods for burning calories.

And there are mental benefits, too. Skipping develops the left and right sides of the brain, increases mental alertness and spatial awareness (jumping is a particularly good way to start your day). Jumping's vertical motion creates enough ground force to increase bone density and help prevent osteoporosis.