How jumping the rope can help you shed kilos: Try skipping for a low-cost, no-fuss way to weight loss

KEY STORY

An interesting study was carried out by the Department of Physical Therapy, Korea Nazarene University, Republic of Korea (South Korea) in 2017. Titled “The effects of dance music jump rope exercise on pulmonary function and body mass index after music jump rope exercise in overweight adults in 20’s”, the purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a dance music jump rope exercise on changes Pulmonary Function and body mass index in female overweight subjects in their 20’s.

Music jump rope, which is a special type of jump rope, is a group exercise that is performed with background music. Participants must move their hands and feet to match the beat and tempo of the music, and this type of exercise enhances body control, such as agility, endurance, quickness, and flexibility.

Pulmonary function and BMI measurements were conducted four weeks after the experiment concluded. The experimental group and control group showed significant differences in VC and BMI. The music jump rope exercise improved the circulation of the cardiovascular system through dynamic movements and strengthened deep breathing by activating the movement of the respiratory muscles to improve the circulation of breathing.

Diet and exercise therapies have been the main recommended treatments for obesity. Exercise becomes the more tedious part as gyms and trainers are not always available or affordable. How about a rope that you could jump?

Your portable – Any place – gym:
Jumping rope is easy to do anywhere. Slip a jump rope in your backpack or bag. Carry it along on official trips, picnics, to work, school or simply use it at home, in a room or the yard or porch… just about anywhere. You can also be doing any other activity while you jump the rope … like watching TV, monitoring the washing machine, watching over the kids as they play, etc.

Benefits of skipping a rope:

1. Jump rope for 10 minutes or run a mile in eight minutes, both burn the same amount of calories.

2. One hour of skipping the rope is said to burn up to 1,600 calories.

3. Jumping or skipping a rope exercises your entire body. Your core gets strengthened as you use your abdominals to stabilise the body, your legs do the jumping, shoulders and all parts of the arms are deployed in the job of turning the rope.

4. Improves heart health. Since jumping rope gets your heart pumping, it’s great for your cardiovascular system and heart health. It also increases your endurance span and stamina.

5. Strengthening your bones. Jumping rope can make your bones stronger. A higher bone density can also reduce the risk for osteoporosis later in life, particularly for girls and women.

6. Increases concentration. You are focussing on the entire act, the rope, your body, the synchronised action. That also helps improve coordination. And ultimately, all this leads to better mental health.

7. Decreases belly fat. Ah! That is wonderful. With your core and abs tightening, the belly fat has no place to seek refuge.

And all this comes at a very low monetary cost. With minimal risk of injury. And is fun like a game of sports.

A word of caution, though:
If you are beginning after a gap of few years or are new to skipping/jumping ropes, we suggest you seek the guidance of a professional trainer and also take a nod from your doctor. Happy skipping. Now skip the rope, not the workout!

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a professional healthcare provider if you have any specific questions about any medical matter.