Some of you wanted to know about jumping rope. There are tons of great websites about it, but this is my story....

Started jumping, in the basement, 4 years ago as a way to exercise when weather prevented running. Started out jumping 10-50 jumps, then resting a bit. Really, I just gradually worked my way up, and now I can jump continuously for 60-80 minutes. What a workout. If I could get my eating under control, I'd be hot!

The biggest secret is to change the legwork every 30-60 seconds. I'll jump 2 feet for a minute, then alternating feet for a minute, then "running" while jumping for a minute, then back to 2 feet, etc. I can't do really fun tricks because the basement ceiling is too low, but knee lifts and super fast sets (180-190 jumps per minute) are fun. It's a great exceuse for me to watch TV. It's total body, works arms and abs as well as legs, much lower impact stress than running, a great back workout, CHEAP, blasts calories...... Google it and check out the sites. I jump with a $7 vinyl rope from Target. Used to jump with a weighted beaded rope, but my arms fatigued too quickly.

Hope this helps!

2piecegal -

Thanks for the info! I am staying at my parents place right now, and don't have the luxury of using any of my yoga/workout tapes - and was looking for something compact - think I found it!! Will have to stop and buy a jump rope tonite - thanks a bunch!!