Trying to figure out which is best for your body or schedule between jumping rope and running? Stuck between the dilemma of jumping rope vs running? When it comes to working out, we often seek the greatest impact for our time and effort. If you are going to spend time and energy at the gym or working out at home, you want to see results. Cardio exercises are a great way to get your heart pumping, burn calories, and lose weight. While some people prefer the rituals and effects associated with running on a daily basis, it is not always an ideal workout for everyone.
In recent years, jumping rope has become a very popular form of exercise. When the coronavirus pandemic kept everyone inside, people learned that it is easy to jump rope from home. Many find themselves torn between running vs jumping rope, but which is the best form of exercise? Keep reading to learn more about jump rope versus running.
Which Burns More Calories, Jumping Rope or Running?
If you are looking to burn calories then you should be aware of the benefits of jumping rope vs running as both of them will provide results. According to a widely cited study, Jumping rope at a moderate pace is very similar to the effects and results of running an eight-minute mile, which is impressive for any athlete. You can expect to burn calories and burn fat with both forms of exercise.
Jumping rope burns more calories per minute than running, though. If efficiency is important, you can get the most impact for your time by jumping rope. Just 10 minutes of a jump rope program can expend the same number of calories as running for 30 minutes. It is easier to burn more calories in less time by jumping rope.
Jumping rope and running can be done by beginners or experienced athletes.
Starting a workout program can be daunting, especially if you are not already active. Both jumping rope and running provide great workouts for beginners with little to no experience. The workouts can be modified to fit your skill level, stamina, and overall abilities. Over time, you can improve your skills and increase the intensity or duration of your workouts.
More experienced runners can push themselves further by improving their times or taking on new challenges. Similarly, advanced jump ropers can learn new skills and tricks, increase their rotations per minute, and increase the duration of their workouts. Advanced athletes will never get bored with jump rope or running workout programs.
Jumping Rope and Running Offer Tons of Health Benefits
There are countless forms of exercise, and the best method often comes down to an individual’s circumstances and personal preferences. However, both running and jumping rope are considered very beneficial forms of exercise. The cardiovascular workouts offer many benefits like weight loss, improved bone density, better oxygen flow to your muscles, increased longevity, and less risk of disease.
When it comes to specific benefits, jumping rope engages a variety of muscles, including your lower legs, glutes, and quads. While running engages your lower body, it is not easy to target specific areas or work on certain body parts. You can choose jump rope drills that work out your core, upper body, or lower body depending on your needs. If you want to strengthen a certain area, jumping rope is the way to go.
Jumping Rope is Low Impact & Easier on Joints
Running on a regular basis can be hard on your joints. As your feet hit the ground while running, you put pressure on your knees, ankles, and shins. Injuries are common among runners and can set you back when it comes to your workout goals. Avid runners are prone to Shin Splints from constant abuse to their lower body. Jumping rope consists of repetitive movements that are relatively light when done properly. By using proper jump rope form you greatly reduce the impact or stress on your joints when compared to running.

Jumping Rope is More Convenient
All you need to complete an effective jump rope workout is a jump rope. Running can be limited by weather conditions, available space, and time. You can fit a calorie-burning jump rope workout in your day without leaving the house. Neither jumping rope or running necessarily requires a gym membership, but jumping rope can be done in a small space or single location without expensive equipment. Also, jumping rope offers a great cardio workout if you only have 10 or 15 minutes.
Runners can Benefit from Jumpinng Rope
If you love to run, you do not have to give up your favorite exercise to jump rope. In fact, runners can benefit from adding jump rope programs into their workouts. Jumping rope can strengthen your muscles, increase your speed, and improve your balance. If there are days when running is impossible due to weather, time constraints, or injury, you can always fit in a jump rope workout instead to stay on track with your fitness goals.
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