I mentioned in a previous post that I have a gym bag in the car which is my mobile gym. It is a surfers bag (large duffel bag) which contains training gloves (to grip all kinds of lousy surfaces), a set of wooden gym rings with straps and cam buckles, and a jump rope.
The jump rope is one of the first training skills we ever learn at school can still seen by many as more a female thing. This probably explains why most men are poorly coordinated. Coordination has to be mastered to do properly.
Yet it is more than just coordination. Learning to jump rope is an explosive training device which really accelerates the heart rate and burns fat.
Like many new training routines it is also very frustrating and I have to be honest is still something I prefer to do at home rather than the gym. When the day comes when i can finally string together an impressive number of jumps I will then happily train anywhere!
Jump roping is a great way of warming up but don't just see it as that. Once you get to a good basic level your cardio improvement will be massive. I am currently building a routine of cardio bursts with running on the spot; burpees (squat thrust and tuck jump); mountain climbers and jump rope. Only the latter requires any equipment but at the end I am begging for forgiveness
Progression includes all sorts of impressive tricks (see my earlier postings) but in particular the 'double under' is the ultimate training device.
Why not buy a couple of ropes and leave in different places? They're quite cheap. Ideally go for the adjustable ones and cut to size. When standing with both feet on the rope the handles should come to just below the armpits. I woulds nevertheless recommend you only cut small pieces off, then try it and cut again. Get a length you feel comfortable with. Also try different types of rope - some prefer weighted handles and heavier ropes but you might get on better with a light kit. Much of it is psychological in my view although I have a rope which is old fashioned and light and I probably struggle more with that than I do with nylon or leather.
Happy training
Andy at Fitter Future
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