Single Unders (Jump Rope)
The fundamental jump rope exercise where the rope passes under your feet once per jump, providing essential cardiovascular and footwork training.
Instructions
- Stand with feet hip-width apart, holding the rope handles at your sides with arms bent slightly forward.
- Hold the rope so it barely brushes the ground behind your feet.
- Jump off both feet simultaneously with a slight forward lean.
- Rotate your wrists to swing the rope forward over your head.
- Pass the rope under your feet as you jump.
- Land softly on the balls of your feet and immediately prepare for the next rotation.
Tips
- Jump only as high as needed for the rope to pass under your feet.
- Keep your elbows close to your body with most movement in your wrists.
- Land with slightly bent knees to absorb impact and prepare for the next jump.
- Maintain an upright posture with core engaged.
- Find a rhythm that feels natural rather than forcing a specific speed.
- Breathe steadily and rhythmically throughout.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 25 s |
| Build muscle | 3 | 40 s |
| Build endurance | 3 | 1 min |