Looking to raise the fun quotient in your exercise routine? Go old school and reintroduce the jump rope to your fitness repertoire. Jumping rope is fitness- and wallet-friendly — all you need is a $10 rope and a flat, open space to get started.Jumping rope is a great cardio workout that improves balance, coordination, and agility.

What you need: A jump rope Keep in mind that jumping with proper form is extremely important. Marty Winkler, co-owner of RopeSport, suggests the following:

Use some wrist and forearm when turning the rope. Make small circles or a cranking motion. Keep your hands level with your hips — don't move them higher or lower.
Jump only an inch or two off the ground. Don't make big jumps, and try to land softly.
Push off from and land on the balls of the feet. Your heels should just tap the ground.
Relax your neck and shoulders and avoid hunching.
Keep your elbows bent, as if you were holding a curl bar. A rope that's too long will pull your elbows away from your torso.
Breathe normally. You should be able to have a conversation with someone while you're jumping.

Number of calories burned (for a person weighing 155 pounds*): Slow jumping burns 9.4 calories per minute and 281 calories per half hour. Moderate jumping burns 11.7 calories per minute and 352 calories per half hour. And if you really get cooking, fast jumping burns 14 calories per minute and 422 calories per half hour.

WomenAndNutrition.com

* Jumping Rope: Not Just for Kids *

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