For most people, jumping rope is an excellent and safe form of exercise, if done properly. Always wear shoes with good arch support and stability while you jump; barefoot jumping puts too much stress on your feet. The best surface for jumping rope is a wooden floor, like most gyms, or packed dirt. If you have to jump on a hard surface like concrete, lay out a pad to help absorb the impact. It’s best not to jump rope on carpet, grass, sand, or gravel, as these loose and uneven surfaces greatly increase the risk of twisting your ankle or losing your balance.If you have arthritis, bad knees, ankle or foot instability, or trouble with your hips, check with your doctor before purchasing a jump rope. And always start slowly, only increasing your speed and the length of your sessions as you gain strength and coordination.