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Jumping rope can be a fun way to get a variety of health benefits. Find out what accessories can make your jump rope sessions even better.
Jumping rope is a form of exercise where you jump up and down over a rope. This can be a great way to get in a cardiovascular workout and all the health benefits associated with that.
In theory, all you need for a jump rope session is a rope. In practice, there are a variety of jump rope accessories that can make the workout more comfortable and more effective.
This can make certain of the options below a worthwhile investment depending on your training goals and budget.
1. Workout shoes
The first jump rope accessory example is straightforward but important anyway. First of all, a plastic jump rope going at high speeds can cause a relatively painful impact against bare feet or socks only.
Secondly, the shocks from jumping rope can be relatively hard on body parts like ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Especially if want to jump rope to lose a few extra pounds. Workout shoes can help absorb some of the impact.
Lastly, you want shoes that don’t slide away from under you. Even if you simply plan to jump up and down, this can help you avoid any accidents.
Most people already have decent workout shoes that fulfill the above requirements. If not, it can definitely be worth it to invest in this jump rope accessory. Particularly if you think about the injuries and accidents it can help you avoid.
2. Jump rope mat
A jump rope mat is simply a mat made for this type of workout. You likely don’t need a mat to jump rope but it can offer some benefits.
Different models are better in different areas but generally jump rope mats are made to absorb some of the shocks of jumping rope and to not slip away from under you while jumping.
Some models even have an extra thick layer to absorb sounds. This can be useful for jumping rope in an apartment with neighbors on all sides.
That being said, you have to make sure the jump rope mat you intend to buy is good for the specific goal you want to use it for. Some versions are better than others in different areas.
One potential downside of this jump rope accessory is that it can be relatively pricey.
You may wonder if you cannot just use a yoga mat for jumping rope instead. This is generally not recommended for a few reasons.
First of all, yoga mats are not made to deal with the impact of a jump rope. A few times will likely not be a problem but over time this will wear down your yoga mat.
Secondly, yoga mats are often not at the same level as a jump rope mat when it comes to being non-slippery. You don’t want your mat sliding out from under you when jumping rope. Especially on more slippery surfaces like parquet flooring or concrete.
3. Weighted vest
A weighted vest is basically its name, a vest with extra weight to make your workouts harder. You can also jump rope with a weighted vest to challenge your cardiovascular system and muscles more.
Keep in mind that this also makes jumping rope harder on your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Depending on your personal situation and training goals this may or may not be a good idea.
One of the benefits of a weighted vest as a piece of fitness equipment is that it is extremely versatile. You can use it in many exercises for many body parts and different exercise categories.
The potential downside of this jump rope accessory is that the best weighted vests require a decent investment.
4. Weighted jump rope
A weighted jump rope is simply a type of jump rope that is made to be heavier than usual. You can see it as a different piece of equipment or as an accessory in your jump rope collection.
By using a jump rope that is heavier than usual you make the same workout harder on your arm muscles and cardiovascular system.
In turn, this can lead to more exercise benefits in a shorter amount of time and changes certain jump rope stats like calories burned.
While not as inexpensive as a regular jumping rope, a benefit of this jump rope accessory is that it is relatively cheap. Similar to regular jumping ropes it is also portable and easily storable.
Check weighted jump rope prices
5. Ankle/wrist weights
Ankle weights or wrist weights, depending on where you put them, are simply straps with some extra weight. Similar to a weighted vest it can make jumping rope just that extra more challenging.
Additionally, they can be used in a variety of exercises for many different body parts. Ankle/wrist weights are relatively inexpensive, easy to store, and very portable.
One thing to keep in mind is that they add weight in a more “unnatural” way than a weighted vest. If you plan to do jump rope tricks where you move your arms and legs a lot, ankle and wrist weights can interfere with the movement.
Besides that, ankle and wrist weights are not as heavy as a weighted vest. This can be a benefit or downside depending on your personal situation and training goals.
6. Jump rope handle grip tape
The handles of your current jump rope may not feel comfortable or slip away at times. There is a simple and inexpensive way to resolve this. You can get a roll of grip tape and wrap it around your jump rope handle.
A benefit of this jump rope accessory is that is relatively inexpensive for the discomfort it can help you avoid.
Check jump rope handle grip tape prices
