The best clothes for jumping rope

Whether skipping barefoot or jumping rope in black patent Mary-Janes, the twelve and under crowd require no special clothing. All they need is a piece of concrete, a rope and a jumping rhyme. Adults wishing to add jumping rope to their fitness program likely need to put a little more thought into it. The following tips should help you skip the bad clothes and jump into the right ones for working that rope.

1. The Agony of Da Feet

Jumping rope is jarring to the tootsies, so make sure that you are wearing a well-cushioned shoe. Shoes made for playing basketball are a good choice because they are designed for both jumping and pivoting, two moves that both sports share. Also make sure to wear a good cotton sock. This will not only help keep the sweat at bay but will help to reduce blisters.

2. Keeping it Cool

Jumping rope is a great cardio workout, and like all good cardio workouts it will make you sweat. You will want to wear something light and airy, or at least a fabric that whisks the perspiration away to keep you cool.

3. Tight is Right

If you must wear long sleeved clothing or long pants stay away from the flowing yoga-type of workout gear. As cute as the flare pants look when doing Tai Chi, they are not appropriate for jumping rope. You want to avoid anything loose so it doesn't get caught in the rope. No hoodies either.

4. Making Sure the Girls Know Their Place

Never is a supportive bra more important than when you are jumping rope. Without the proper bra you will not only be uncomfortable, but you could harm your back or neck. Try on a few different types of sports bras to see which one feels right to you. Don't be afraid to jump up and down in the fitting room or better yet, bring your skip rope with you when you try them on.

5. Making Sure the Boys Know Their Place

Women are not the only ones jumping rope for fitness and they are not the only ones who need to worry about a little support. Guys, you might want to invest in a jock or similar type of device to hold the boys in place or your workout could turn out far more painful than you had imagined.

Skipping rope is a fun and fantastic way to get in shape. Not only does it burn the calories, it also helps us recapture a little bit of our childhood. When done correctly and wearing the correct clothes it is an exercise that is not only good for the body but good for the mind and soul as well.