Don’t skip skipping! Here’s how this basic exercise can help you lose a whole lot of weight

Skipping rope might not be an Olympic sport but most Olympians indulge in this exercise–because it’s just that good! Here's why you should too.
benefits of skipping
The humble skipping promises weight loss and a lot more. GIF courtesy: Eye Desyn via Giphy
Nikita Bhardwaj Updated: 22 Apr 2020, 09:36 am IST
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We all believe that only things that are really, truly hard can help us get great results. Not just in life, we apply this formula even when it comes to weight loss–often trying to nail complicated exercises for a lean physique.

As a result, we end up ignoring the basics which can not only fuel our weight-loss endeavours but also build strength. In fact, you will be glad to know that simple exercises are more effective when it comes to losing weight.

Activities like walking and cycling can rejig your entire weight loss regimen as per a study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicines.

One such basic exercise which doesn’t get its due credit at all when it comes to weight loss is skipping.

Skipping daily can give you a toned bod
Surprising, we know, but skipping daily can give you a well-toned body. Skipping is a full body workout and just spending a few minutes on this exercise daily can have enormous benefits.

Even world boxing champ, Mary Kom is an advocate of skipping. In fact, in an interview a couple of years ago she revealed that she lost two kilos in just four hours by skipping.

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Skipping is a full-body workout
Skipping targets almost all the muscles in your body and burns fat like a pro. Let’s start from the upper body–your shoulders, biceps, triceps, and forearms are targeted when you spin the rope.

If you keep your core tight, your abs and oblique muscles will also experience maximum tension when you skip, which will ultimately tone your belly.
Not to mention, from your glutes to calves–every leg muscle works in tandem when you skip. The result? Major weight loss.

Also read: Take these 6 steps to prevent workout injuries so you can stay in the game

Skipping also builds stamina
If you pant a lot se bhi zada while running on the treadmill, then your stamina is to blame here. But never mind, because skipping rope can help you build it up.

benefits of skipping
Even if you can’t make it to the gym or don’t feel like jogging in the park, 20 minutes of skipping at home can help you stay true to your fitness regimen. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Skipping is a great cardiovascular exercise and according to a survey conducted by British Rope Skipping Association, skipping for an hour can help you burn up to 1,600 calories (depending on your speed). Plus, better coordination and focus is also up for grabs.

Skipping is also great for your metabolism and joints
As skipping is a cardiovascular exercise, it helps in reviving your metabolism. In fact, the American Heart Association says that skipping is a better alternative for the treadmill and provides more benefits by reducing the chances of stroke, heart diseases, diabetes, and cancer.

Since, the resistance level is really low in skipping it is gentler on your joints as compared to the treadmill or cross-trainer.

Not to mention, a study in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that young women who jump just ten times, three times a week for six months, had increased bone mineral density in their legs and the lower half of their spines.

Guess what? Skipping has mental health benefits too
A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience claims that skipping helps in boosting mood, improves memory, and alleviates stress too.

The bottom line? If you have been ignoring that skipping rope lying in your home, rubbishing the exercise as literal child’s play–then know this. Skipping can open a world of health benefits for you.

What more could you want from this humble and pocket-friendly exercise? So, ladies gear up and don’t skip skipping!

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About the Author

Six-pack abs are all that Nikita needs, along with her daily dose of green tea. At Health Shots, she produces videos, podcasts, stories, and other kick-ass content. ...Read More

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