I am jumping rope. A lot of jumping rope. Considering its simplicity and relative low cost, it’s almost ironic how important—no, vital—this exercise is to boxing training.
Each conditioning day, I am jumping at least twice during the session. The minimum length is typically 3 minutes, which is no easy feat. I am looking forward to the time when I see three minutes as nothing more than a mere walk in the park and I am able to maintain longer stints with ease. I know, if I keep at it, that time will come sooner than I realize.
From what I read, the benefits of jumping rope include improvements in conditioning, rhythm, coordination, footwork, and power. I have already noticed the additional benefits of breath control and the increased mental ability to think past the pain and focus [mentally] elsewhere.
Haven’t jumped rope since childhood? Give it a go! I think you may find it harder than you remember, at first… but stick with it and you’ll be happy you did.