How to Teach Jump Roping Skills to Kids

Teaching kids the skills needed to jump rope will show them they can have fun while improving their health. Jumping rope is one of the most beneficial exercises children can do; it helps to strengthen their heart and lungs. Jumping rope also aids in weight loss and enhances the ability to run and jump better. Jump ropes are inexpensive and portable. Not only does jumping rope provide health benefits, it also builds self-esteem.

Things You'll Need

  • Segmented or plastic jump rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the jump rope by having each child stand on the center of a rope. Have the children pull the handles up to their armpits; the handles should reach the height of the armpits.

    • 2

      Advise the children to firmly hold the handles of the jump rope with their thumbs pointing down. Remind the kids that holding their heads straight and looking forward will help them to maintain their balance. Direct the children to stand with their feet slightly apart.

    • 3

      Instruct the children to hold their jump ropes in front of them and then step over it. The jump rope should now be behind the children's feet.

    • 4

      Show them how to twist their wrists and swing the rope over their heads while jumping with both feet as the rope is about to touch the floor. Encourage the children to continue swinging and jumping over the jump rope multiple times in a row to master the "Basic Jump".

    • 5

      Introduce the "Skip Rope" method once they have mastered the "Basic Jump". Instruct the children to swing the rope around the same way they do with the "Basic Jump", except this time they will be jumping with one foot and landing on the other. Encourage them to try to continuously swing the rope while they alternate the jumping foot each time.