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Jumping rope is a physical activity that provides aerobic and bone-strengthening benefits. It also helps with balance and coordination.

A quick look at some of the best jump ropes

Jumping rope can be a fun and safe aerobic activity for many people. Experienced athletes jump rope as a conditioning workout to improve their performance, but it can also be good for beginners.

People with certain health conditions and those who are pregnant may require specific instructions on how to jump safely.

This article explores some of the best jump ropes for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Different workouts will have different effects depending on a person’s fitness level.

There are a couple of things to consider when jumping rope. The following sections outline these considerations in more detail.

Staying within the target heart rate

It is important to select a jump rope workout that gets the heart rate into the moderate intensity zone.

The target heart rate for moderate-intensity physical activity is 64–76% of a person’s maximum heart rate, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

A person’s maximum heart rate depends on several factors, including their age and fitness level.

To estimate their maximum age-related heart rate, people can subtract their age from 220.

This means the maximum heart rate for a person aged 30 years would be about 190 beats per minute (bpm). Accordingly, their target heart rate for moderate-intensity physical activity would be 122–144 bpm.

A person can check their pulse on their wrist or neck to determine their heart rate.

Choosing a technique

People can jump rope with both feet, or they can jump on one leg and then switch to the other.

A person can measure the length of the rope in relation to their body to determine the appropriate jump rope length.

They can do this by holding the rope handles, standing with one foot on the middle of the rope, and pulling the handles up to straighten the rope alongside the body. The handles should reach the armpits.

Beginners may feel more comfortable using a rope that is a bit longer.

Some types of long-length jump ropes that a person can look for include:

  • double Dutch skipping ropes, which are for two people and are typically 14 feet (ft) in length
  • aluminum handle skipping ropes, which tend to be 11 ft in length
  • plastic hurdle skipping ropes, which are usually 11 ft in length

Some of the features a person can consider when looking for a jump rope include:

  • Rope length: Ropes come in different lengths, and people should choose one that is compatible with their height. They should also check whether they can adjust the rope.
  • Fitness level: Different ropes are suitable for different fitness levels. Some companies offer a choice of weights for beginners and advanced trainers. Others sell products that may also be suitable for children.
  • Accessories: Some products come with a carrying bag, making them a good option for people who are traveling or want to train at a gym.

Some companies recommend exercising on a smooth surface to increase the rope’s durability.

Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:

  • Price: Products are available for a range of budgets.
  • Features: Products have a variety of features to suit individual needs.
  • Suitability: Products come in a range of styles and sizes.

Below, we look in more detail at 13 jump ropes that people may wish to consider purchasing.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

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Best for all experience levels: XYLsports Jump Rope

This jump rope is a great option for easy jumping and recreational use.

The rope is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and the handles are padded with foam.

The length of the rope is 9 ft 8 inches (in), but a person can cut it to shorten it, should they wish to.

This rope is suitable for both beginners and experienced jumpers.

Price: The XYLsports Jump Rope has a list price of around $17.

Pros

  • available in three colors
  • has padded handles
  • has an adjustable length
  • suits all skill and fitness levels

Cons

  • some reviewers report that the rope may tangle easily
  • reviews note that the lightweight design may make it difficult to form an arc while jumping
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Best for a weighted jump rope: Pulse Weighted Jump Rope

Weighted jump ropes such as this one have handles that contain removable weights.

These ropes are suitable for boxers, people who do speed training, and those looking for additional forearm strengthening.

A person can easily adjust this rope to suit their height by cutting it to the correct length.

The handles are made with memory foam.

Price: The Pulse Weighted Jump Rope has a list price of around $25.

Pros

  • comes with a lifetime warranty
  • has handles with removable weights
  • provides a firm grip

Cons

  • some customers report that the rope may tangle easily
  • reviews note that the handles may break if a person drops the jump rope
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Best for a range of colors: WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope

This rope is suitable for people who enjoy boxing, martial arts, or generally staying fit. It is also a good option for those who work out at home.

When people use this rope, they may notice that it creates a stable swing, helping them recover quickly from inaccurate swings.

Moreover, the product comes with a 10-ft cable that a person can adjust with a cutter.

The manufacturer recommends jumping with this rope on a smooth surface to avoid damaging the coating.

It is available in nine colors.

Price: The WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope has a list price of around $25.

Pros

  • provides stable swings
  • has an adjustable length
  • comes in nine colors
  • is suitable for exercising at home

Cons

  • according to reviews, it may only suit those who are into slow jumps
  • some customers report that the handles may separate from the screws
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Best for lower budgets: DEGOL Skipping Rope

This skipping rope is suitable for adults and children and may be a good choice for those who enjoy boxing and aerobics.

It is made from durable PVC with memory foam handles, so it is lightweight, easy to carry, and comfortable to grasp. It has an adjustable cable that is 9 ft long.

Price: The DEGOL Skipping Rope has a list price of around $9.

Pros

  • may be suitable for children
  • has lightweight, ergonomic handles
  • has a dual ball bearing system

Cons

  • according to reviewers, handles may unscrew
  • some customers state that the grips may come off
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Best for a jump rope with a case: RXSG RapidFit Jump Rope

RXSG’s RapidFit Jump Rope is designed for individuals who are 5–6 ft in height.

Its handles have two ball bearings, and it comes with a custom hard-sided case.

The material is PVC, and the cord length is adjustable.

Price: The RXSG RapidFit Jump Rope has a list price of around $65.

Pros

  • has ergonomic handles
  • has a hard case for tangle-free storage
  • has an adjustable length

Cons

  • is more expensive than many alternatives on this list
  • according to reviewers, it may tear on hard surfaces, such as when jump roping in a garage
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Best for adjustable weights: Crossrope Get Lean Jump Rope

This jump rope comes with slim handles, a carry pouch, and 30-day free access to the Crossrope app. It is available in five different sizes to suit a range of heights.

Customers receive two ropes of different weights. They can choose which one to use based on their fitness level and the type of training they want to do.

Moreover, individuals who buy this product can benefit from a fast clip system that allows them to change between the ropes.

The company offers free shipping and a 60-day return guarantee.

Price: The Crossrope Get Lean Jump Rope has a list price of around $119.

Pros

  • has a 60-day return guarantee
  • offers different cable lengths
  • offers free shipping
  • has a downloadable companion app

Cons

  • more expensive than some other options
  • reviewers note they experienced shipping delays
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Best for a digital jump rope: Tangram Smart Jump Rope Rookie

This smart jump rope comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect it to their smartphone and track their progress through the SmartRope app. It measures the number of calories a person burns and the time they spend jumping, among other metrics. As people jump, they can unlock rewards and challenge other users.

The adjustable rope is 9 ft 10 in, and its battery lasts for up to 9 months.

In addition, a person can choose from three different colors.

Price: The Tangram Smart Jump Rope Rookie has a list price of around $40.

Pros

  • reportedly has a long battery life
  • works via Bluetooth
  • comes in different colors

Cons

  • relies on a battery to use the app
  • some reviewers report app syncing problems
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Best for a speed rope: Buddy Lee Aero Speed Jump Rope

Buddy Lee’s rope is suitable for high intensity speed and power cross-training. People of all fitness levels can benefit from this product.

It comes with a patented swivel bearing system to prevent tangling. It has 6-in handles and adjustable cords.

A person can adjust the size according to their height, and they can choose from a range of colors. The company also offers a weighted version.

Price: Buddy Lee Aero Speed Jump Rope has a list price starting around $40.

Pros

  • has adjustable cords
  • comes in different colors
  • has soft handle grips

Cons

  • according to reviewers, the rope tangles easily
  • the weighted version of this jump rope is more expensive than other weighted versions
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Best for beginners: Hmount Deeroll Adjustable Jump Rope

Hmount Deeroll recommends this jump rope to people who are new to rope jumping.

The rope has a bal bearing system, so it does not twist or bend when in use.

It may also suit those who do boxing and cross-training.

Additionally, the rope has a PVC coating that makes it resistant to wear and tear. Its length is also adjustable.

Price: The Hmount Deeroll Adjustable Jump Rope has a list price of around $9.

Pros

  • has a 30-day return policy
  • offers free shipping
  • has an easily adjustable length

Cons

  • some reviewers state that the jump rope is thin
  • according to some customers, it may be best suitable for people under 6 feet tall
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Best for cardio workouts: GoFit Speed Training Jump Rope

This GoFit training jump rope comes with padded foam grips that may help prevent arm fatigue and ensure the individual is comfortable during cardio workouts.

This rope has ball bearings that provide a smooth rotation. The company states that the smooth rotation of the jump rope may help build a person’s endurance due to its simplicity of use. The cable is 9 ft long, but a person can shorten it if necessary.

Price: The GoFit Speed Training Jump Rope has a list price of around $13.

Pros

  • lightweight
  • does not tire out the wrists, according to the company

Cons

  • some reviewers report the rope may tangle
  • some customers state the rope does not hang straight
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Best for indoor workouts: Elite SRS Surge 3.0 Professional Speed Rope

This Elite SRS rope comes with stainless steel ball bearings that do not rust if a person sweats.

The cable is nylon coated, which according to the manufacturer is more durable than PVC.

The rope offers easy, smooth spins.

Elite SRS recommends exercising with this rope indoors to increase its longevity.

Also, the cable is 10 ft long and is available in different colors. The handles feature a screw and key system that allows users to adjust the length. It may suit those who are up to 6 ft 5 in tall.

Price: Elite SRS Surge 3.0 Professional Speed Rope has a list price starting from around $43.

Pros

  • comes in different colors
  • has smooth ball bearings
  • easily adjustable length

Cons

  • handles may be small for some people
  • some customers state the handle screws may become loose
  • some reviewers report that the rope may tangle easily, making it difficult to jump rope fast
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Best for a long cable: Rogue Fitness Fraser SR-2S Speed Rope 3.0

Rogue Fitness’s jump rope includes a 10-ft nylon-coated cable and a handle length of 5.25 in.

The company recommends using this rope on rubber or nonabrasive surfaces.

Rogue Fitness’s shipping system allows customers to track their orders.

Price: The Rogue Fitness rope has a list price of around $47.

Pros

  • offers replacement cables
  • offers order tracking
  • provides a smooth action, according to customers

Cons

  • some reviewers state the rope may develop scratch marks
  • some customers report that it is difficult to cut the rope to size
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Best for an easily adjustable cable: SPRI Speed Jump Rope

SPRI’s speed jump rope has a flexible and lightweight design and may suit those who engage in intermediate and advanced rope moves.

This rope has an easy grip and extended-length plastic handles.

The cable length is 9 ft, but there are adjustable clips that individuals can use if they wish to shorten the length.

Price: SPRI Speed Jump Rope has a list price of around $7.

Pros

  • flexible
  • lightweight
  • affordable

Cons

  • some customers report potential shipping delays
  • some reviewers state that it can be tricky to adjust the cable
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The following table compares the jump ropes in this article.

Handle materialCable lengthList price
XYLsportsfoam9 ft, adjustablearound $17
Pulsememory foam10 ft, adjustablearound $25
WODacrylonitrile butadiene styrene10 ftaround $25
DEGOLmemory foam9 ftaround $9
RXSGPVC9 ftaround $65
Crossropeno information availableup to 9 ft 6 inaround $119
Tangrampolypropylene9 ft 10 inaround $40
Buddy LeeT-grade9 ft 4 infrom around $40
Hmountmemory foam9 ftaround $9
GoFitfoam9 ftaround $13
Elitealuminum 10 ftfrom around $43
Rogue Fitnessaluminum10 ftaround $47
SPRIPVC9 ftaround $7

Jumping rope is one way a person can incorporate exercise into their routine.

People can use it to develop athletic conditioning, balance, and coordination in several sports disciplines.

Benefits of regular exercise

Regular exercise combined with a nutritious diet can help people with:

  • maintaining a moderate weight
  • preventing excessive weight gain
  • losing weight, if necessary

Regular exercise has other associated benefits. Below, we look at these in more detail.

It may lower the risk of disease

In addition to its benefits for weight management, regular exercise may also lower the risk of:

It may help strengthen the bones

Jumping rope is a bone-strengthening activity.

People may also refer to bone-strengthening activities as weight-bearing, or weight-loading, activities. These exercises produce a force on the body that promotes bone growth and strength.

The impact with the ground that occurs during jumping, running, and weightlifting creates forces on the bones that strengthen them.

It may help people with osteoporosis

Jumping rope may help people with osteoporosis. Studies suggest that it may improve bone mineral density in people experiencing premenopause and men with low bone density.

Jumping rope should not pose a particular risk for people with osteoporosis unless they also have balance problems or other medical issues.

Any form of exercise — be it aerobic, muscle strengthening, or bone strengthening — has the potential to cause injuries.

People with particular medical conditions may need to adjust their exercise routine for safety purposes.

The following are some of the risks associated with jumping rope.

Stress urinary incontinence

Jumping increases pressure in a person’s abdomen. For this reason, high impact exercises, which include jumping rope, can increase the risk of stress urinary incontinence in female athletes.

However, studies suggest that most physical activity does not lead to pelvic floor dysfunction.

Under supervision, pregnant people who exercised prior to becoming pregnant may engage in exercise programs that include high and low impact aerobics if they also perform pelvic floor muscle exercises.

In fact, researchers suggest using a technique called “the knack” to prevent urinary leakage during pregnancy. This is a quick, strong, and well-timed pelvic floor contraction. Performing the knack before and during high impact exercise increases pressure inside the abdomen.

Pregnant people can try to contract their pelvic floor muscles just before they land during a jump or just before any other movement that causes a rise in pressure in the abdomen.

This technique reinforces the pelvic floor muscles to prevent urinary leakage.

Falls

People with balance issues may wish to consider avoiding jumping rope and doing other high impact activities that put them at risk of falling.

Before starting any exercise program, it is best to speak with a doctor to ensure that the program is safe.

An exercise specialist, or kinesiologist, can help people with medical conditions or limitations put together a safe and effective exercise routine.

Other products and equipment that people can use to work out at home include:

  • treadmill
  • stationary bike
  • elliptical machine
  • StairMaster
  • rowing machine
  • ski machine
  • Jacob’s Ladder step machine
  • free weights, kettlebells, and barbells

Another product that people can easily install at home is a punching bag. With boxing gloves, people can get a great workout from punching and kicking the bag.

People can also pay for access to workouts online or on social media, or they can find free ones that require little or no equipment.

Here we answer some common questions about this fitness equipment.

Is jumping rope a good way to lose weight?

The American Heart Association (AHA) lists rope jumping as one of the exercises that people can do — alongside jogging, running, and swimming — to increase heart rate and promote weight loss.

The organization states that people can burn up to 1000 calories per hour depending on their weight.

What does jumping rope do to your body?

Jumping rope helps provide muscle stability and joint support.

Additionally, it can help people reach a moderate weight alongside a healthy, balanced diet.

Is it OK to jump rope every day?

A person can jump rope every day.

However, if a person experiences muscle aches, they may wish to have a rest day of lighter exercise, such as walking.

Is jumping rope a good exercise?

Jumping rope is a cardio exercise, which can help increase fitness. Alongside eating a healthy, balanced diet, it can help people reach their weight goals.

Jumping rope can be a safe and fun activity for many people. However, some people with certain medical conditions or limitations may require supervision while jumping rope.

Jump ropes are available that are suited to different people and different workout settings.