Up, Down, Up, Down

What piece of exercise equipment sells for under $20, fits into a briefcase, can be used by the whole family, and improves cardiovascular fitness while toning muscle at the same time? And using it for just 15-20 minutes will burn off the calories from a candy bar? The answer: a jump rope.

Yes - today we talk about jump rope.

Feel free to listen to this song while reading...it's a keeper!

There are several reasons I'm a fan of jumping rope. And there are several reasons you should be too!

- Jumping rope is a type of cardiovascular exercise that engages the whole body through consistent hops in the air.

- When you add jump rope into your weight lifting workout, you increase calorie burn and help train your heart with short bursts of speed

- Jumping rope burns calories at a similar rate as running does

- A jump rope is a really simple and inexpensive piece of workout equipment

- Jump rope training will enhance coordination, agility, quickness, footwork and endurance

I have a special place in my heart for jump rope. As weird as that may sound...but when I was young I participated in Jump Rope for Heart at my elementary school. It's a great way to get kids moving and teach them about how moving and staying active does protect their heart. 

Here are some jump rope workouts you might like to try:

- 5 Jump Rope Drills to Improve Quickness 

- 15 Minute Workout 

- 10 Minute Workout 

Add one of those to your next weights session or use it as a warm up and you'll be feelin' it!