Skipping - only for girls? Ask a boxer!

Any boxer will tell you skipping is a great form of exercise. And who argues with a boxer?
To start skipping all you need is a rope! And the desire to become fitter, sharper and to feel great!

To get the right length of skippping rope...Stand by the centre of the rope, and lift the handles upward. When the handles meet the rope should be level with your armpits.
Some skipping ropes can be cut to fit - but if your rope is the wrong length don’t despair!
Tie knots near the handles to make alterations and you're done!

Before you start...
Wear good trainers and warm up by marching on the spot before you start.
Don't skip on a solid floor! At least use an exercise mat to cushion the skippping exercises!

Let's start!
Keep your elbows tucked into your sides, using your wrists to keep the rope turning smoothly.
Stand up straight - avoid the temptation to lean forward.
Keep a good pace going - if you go too slowly the rope will lose tension and snag on your head or feet.
Begin with small two footed jumps.
Once you become more comfortable you can easily add variations like alternating feet. Start by jumping a few times on one foot, then switch to the other foot. Soon you will be able to go from one to the other without catching the rope.

At first, you may only do a couple of jumps before you get caught in the skipping rope! We've all been there! Take your time. Soon you'll be doing 10, 20, 30 then 40 continuous jumps!

Then build up slowly - until you can skip the whole length of your favourite music track! Take a break, then try again with another step.

OK, you're already on your way to becoming fitter, losing a few inches and looking great!

You can add variety by skipping to music, using different foot combinations, or making it a part of a home circuit workout.

Once you have finished your session, warm down and stretch your muscles, especially those of your lower body and forearms.

Don't overdo it. Like most exercise try to do it 2 or 3 times a week.
The next article will take you to the next stage!

Keep it fun!