Like any other exercise regimen, beginning a rope jumping program requires caution and patience. Rope jumping is an intense aerobic workout that is comparable to running in increasing the heart rate.
Most people become winded after just two minutes of continuous rope jumping.
For that reason, it is important to be in reasonably good shape before even beginning a rope jumping program. Beginners must learn proper form and control. Starting jumpers commonly leap when they should skip, said Martin Winkler, a partner in a freestyle jump rope exercise program in California. The key is only leaving the ground a few inches. It is also important to keep the knees soft for impact cushioning and to stay on the balls of your feet and your toes, Cotton said, as well as use the wrists to rotate the rope rather than swinging the arms.