Jumper: how to find the one best suited to you? (+ useful tips for choosing)

Jumper: Is this a kid’s toy?!” many would probably say reading this headline. It is in fact an excellent training tool (even for adults) that helps develop coordination and muscles, as well as regulate body weight.

The tradition of rope jumping originated in the 17th century in the Netherlands, where it first spread among local children who danced on a rope in one or two pairs while playing music. At first, such an activity was considered completely ridiculous, but it soon spread across the Atlantic, to America and around the world.

What are the benefits of jumping jacks?

Everyone has probably been exposed to a jump rope in some way, whether as a child on the playground or during physical education lessons in elementary school. Skipping is one of the easiest ways to get fit and feel good. This type of training stimulates and strengthens the joints and is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels due to the low risk of injury.

What different jump ropes are there?

Skipping ropes differ mainly in their materials. There are for example sweaters made from ropes, which are mainly used in gymnastics. Leather jumpers and PVC-coated aluminum rope jumpers are also available.

Additionally, jump ropes also vary in thickness. The thinner the sweater, the lighter it is and allows you to jump faster. Thicker jump ropes are a little slower, but they also offer more impact because it takes more effort to move them quickly.

Also, jumpers differ in thickness. Thinner jumpers are lighter and allow you to jump faster. Skippers with a thicker rope will jump more slowly, but they also offer a greater training effect because more effort will be required.

The jumpers also differ in length. The skipping ropes sold by Budopunkt are adjustable in length. The length of the skipping rope can be adjusted via the handle end, from which you can pull the rope out and cut off the rest or fix it with a suitable screw. This is a particularly useful option when multiple people of different heights are using the jump rope, as it allows you to change the length of the jump rope indefinitely. Sweater handles also vary: Some sweaters have thicker handles and are also harder to hold. There are also sweaters with thinner handles, made of both plastic and metal.

Among the most interesting models we can distinguish those to which it is possible to add weights. For example, a rope weighs two kilograms, which makes it much more difficult to jump. You can also add weights in place of the jumping jack handles. There are also Budopunkt models where inside the handle there is a counter that counts the jumps performed.

How to choose a sweater?

It’s more a matter of taste, but there are some tips to follow. A thinner jumper is generally more suitable for experienced jumpers as it can also be used with a double or triple jump. For example, CrossFit clubs use thin, adjustable screw jumpers. Also, you may want to consider whether you want extra weight or regular sweaters before purchasing.

Sweaters of medium thickness and adjustable length are also suitable for children. When adjusting the length, you can follow the classic formula: to calculate the correct length of the skipping rope, you need to step on it with one foot and adjust it so that the part of the rope reaches exactly under the armpits.

However, since the most important factor in choosing a sweater is personal feel and preference, it’s a good idea to try it on yourself before buying. Budopunkt offers all different types of skipping ropes and those interested can try them on site to find the right fit.

What type of sweater is best for me?

To choose the right sweater, you must first ask yourself – why do I need a sweater – to jump at home from time to time, or is there a specific desire to discover and experience the charm of training jumpers.

Woven sweaters – beginner level

The most common sweater, which will definitely remind everyone of their childhood

The Advantage is one of the cheapest options on the market.

Cons: Jumping is inherently difficult and slow.

So if you are a CrossFit, boxer or advanced athlete, you can skip this option. This skipping rope is suitable for beginners: The skipping rope is thick enough to give you control, feeling and jumping.

It is suitable for indoor use as the fabric absorbs moisture on the outside, making the rope even heavier and stiffer and the pleasure of skipping quickly disappears, especially for beginners.

Leather sweaters are a retro sweater for boxers

Over the years, it has been a popular choice among boxers, including legendary athletes Mohammed Ali and Mike Tyson.

In boxing training, leather jumpers were mainly used to develop the coordination, foot speed and agility required in the sport of boxing.

The handles are usually made of wood or plastic and are inherently faster than fabric jumpers.

While aspiring leather sweaters should take into account that leather is an organic material, humid environments should be avoided when using it outdoors. You should also be careful about leather skipping ropes, different speeds for training and beginners: the skipping rope can gain inertia and touch the body, which can cause painful sensations.

The jumpers are covered in plastic/PVC, the most versatile choice for everyone from beginners to CrossFit enthusiasts

The most popular type of skipping ropes in the sports market. The price of the product differs in many respects – it differs by its characteristics – the length and thickness of the handles or rope.

Depending on the style and orientation, the jumper is suitable for both beginners and experienced players.

The speed of the jump rope plays an important role in the user’s choices.

If you are a CrossFit lover and train regularly, choose a sweater with a thickness of 2.5-4 mm and the handles should be made of a durable material such as metal.

– 2.5mm – suitable for advanced enthusiasts whose rope knowledge and technique allows for extremely fast and consistent jumps.

– 4.0 mm – for beginners who need to learn to feel the mobility of the rope before jumping.

For martial arts enthusiasts, we recommend a 4mm plastic-coated steel rope or leather rope: although it is not extremely fast, it provides a more effective resistance training effect. It is worth remembering that the thicker the thread, the longer it will last. The ropes of these jumpers are made of dense steel wire, so pain sensations due to mistakes or high speed are guaranteed. Avoid jumping on hard floors (e.g. concrete, asphalt) as this type of surface wears down the plastic and significantly shortens the life of the product. Use a plastic rope jumper on rubber or parquet floors.

Heavy jump ropes: strength, speed and endurance

These jumps are not suitable for beginners as previous experience and a high level of technique are required to effectively benefit from the simulator’s training effects. This type of training combines strength, endurance and speed.

There are several options: adding weights to the handles, a heavy rope that you can add weight to, or having jumpers of different weights.

So, if you have acquired the technique and stamina of a regular jumper and want to make your jumps more difficult, you can rest assured that the jumper has added an important principle to your training.

What effect does jumping rope have on the body?

This is a very effective cardio workout that works well for the cardiovascular system, burns fat and loses weight. For example, jumping for 10 minutes is proportional to running in a small circle.

Jumping also develops coordination, especially if you perform different variations in addition to the usual ones. Since you jump standing, with the skipping rope you can develop the speed of the so-called thumb work, which is very important, for example, when running.

What jumping exercises do we offer in addition to the classic options?

In addition to staying in one place, you can also jump with a skipping rope while moving. It’s harder than regular jumping jacks, so it’s a good way to take your training to a new level. However, at the beginning, the technique should be explained clearly and it should be ensured that the jumping takes place at a moderate pace, because this way it is more beneficial for the body.

What else should I know about show jumping?

The length of the sweater needs to be adjusted. If the rope is too long there is a risk of contact with bodies during the jump. However, this slows down the entire jumping process. A rope that is too short also increases the risk of tripping.

Unlike most exercise equipment, a jump rope generally requires no maintenance, which is one of its great advantages. In addition, they are also very convenient to store and take with you – you can jump almost anywhere.