Skipping ropes for Black Friday

Why the skipping rope is the boxers' favourite tool

The skipping rope simulates what the ring demands: staying on the balls of your feet, making light footwork and keeping the rhythm despite fatigue. It builds cardiovascular endurance, coordination between hands and feet, and quick footwork, which is essential for dodging and then returning to range. Boxers use it for warm-ups, but also at the end of their sessions, in three-minute rounds separated by a minute of rest, just like in a fight. Compact, it can be stored in a corner of the bag and used anywhere, even in a small room.

The other combat sports

The combat sports on Black Friday also include:

• Boxing gloves.
• Boxing shorts.
• Protective gear.
• Shoes.
• Kimonos.

All combat sports are gathered on the combat sports page.

Weighted rope Everlast: more weight for more intensity

A weighted rope weighs more than a speed rope: the weight, located in the handles or the cable depending on the model, forces the shoulders, forearms, and abdominal muscles to work with every turn. The rotation becomes slower and more controlled, which also helps to feel the movement. Everlast was founded in 1910 in New York by Jacob Golomb, and the brand made its mark in boxing history when Jack Dempsey, who equipped himself with it, won the world heavyweight title in 1919. Its weighted rope carries on this tradition of ring training.

Adjusting the length and adopting the right jumping technique

A well-adjusted rope is judged while standing, one foot placed in the middle of the cable: the handles should rise to about the armpits. Shorter, it spins quickly but catches with the slightest misstep; longer, it slows the rhythm. When jumping, keep the elbows close to the body and use the wrists to turn the rope, not the shoulders. You only lift a few centimetres off the ground, on the balls of your feet, with knees soft. The first sessions alternate between feet together and boxing steps, shifting from one foot to the other, before tackling the double jump, where the rope passes under the feet twice.

Scheduling your skipping sessions at home

To make progress, shorter and regular sessions are better than long sessions spaced out. A beginner starts with three rounds of one minute, interspersed with 30 seconds of recovery, then gradually increases the duration to three-minute rounds. With a weighted rope, you first reduce the volume, as shoulders tire more quickly. The floor matters too: a wooden or thick carpet cushions the landings, while tiles and concrete put a lot of strain on ankles and knees. Finally, make sure there's enough clearance above your head, as the rope sweeps through the space around your body.

Frequently asked questions

Which rope should I choose to work on footwork speed?

The speed rope, thin and light, works on rhythm and coordination. The weighted rope develops shoulder strength and endurance in muscles: many boxers alternate both depending on the session's goal.

Does skipping help you lose weight?

It's one of the most intense exercises you can do at home, as it engages the whole body and increases heart rate. Combined with a balanced diet, regular practice helps in weight loss.

Is a skipping rope suitable for a child who does boxing?

Yes, the rope develops coordination from a young age. You should choose a light rope, suitable for their height, and save the weighted rope for adolescence, when their shoulders are stronger.

How do you take care of your skipping rope?

Wipe the handles after your session to remove sweat and store the rope coiled without knots, away from heat. Avoid jumping on an abrasive surface, which wears out the cable's cover.

Can you skip every day?

Yes, as long as you pace yourself: light technique sessions on some days, more intense rounds on others. Pain in the shins or calves indicates you should ease off for a few days.