Double jumps are one of the basic exercises of any functional training. But performing them correctly requires coordination, agility, skill, and hours of training, as well as good material. Do you know what characteristics a good Rope should have?
Rope of speed: what is it?
If you practice cross-training, you need a Rope of speed. Why? Because you need it to be fast to perform double jumps and to link them smoothly during the WOD. Speed ropes consist of three elements:
- a cable
- handles
- bearings
Therefore, if you're looking to go fast, we don't recommend the classic toy jump ropes, especially because they don't incorporate at least one bearing inside the handle that will help you spin the cable.
Characteristics of a good Rope
Besides being composed of a cable, handles, and bearings, a good speed rope for crossfit should have the following characteristics:
Weight and balance
The Rope of speed should be lightweight to avoid tiring your hands during jumps; but with enough weight to correctly perform wrist spins.
Bearings
Together with the weight and proper balance of the Rope, its bearings are essential for efficient jumping: they should be fast, easy, and smooth. It's important to check that the bearings work properly, don't get stuck or slow down when linking several double jumps, and are well lubricated to avoid wear.
Spin of the Rope
The spin is the key to a Rope of speed. To ensure you don't struggle with Double Unders, it is essential to check that the Rope of speed spins smoothly. If you notice a defect in the spin, your technique will suffer as you'll have to compensate with a faster wrist movement or slower jumps. In the end, you'll end up more tired and lose time in the WOD.
Cable
The speed of the Rope depends on the cable you use. It can be plastic or metal, and its thickness can vary depending on your jumping level. If you're starting out, it's better to choose a thicker cable to control the movement and focus on technique. If you're an expert at doubles and looking to perform triple jumps, thin cables of 2mm are the best option as they allow you to go very fast and literally cut through the air with each jump.
Ergonomics
Jumping well is jumping comfortably. It's important to pay attention to the handles of the Rope of speed to ensure you feel comfortable with it during jumps. Good ergonomics of the handles are characterized by an easy, firm grip adapted to your hand.
Adjustment
It's important to finally check that the Rope adjusts to your height easily. Some ropes don't offer the option to modify the cable length once you've adjusted it, so you'll have to buy another cable for that. Ideally, after adjusting it, you can move the handles on the same cable to improve that adjustment; or even lend it to your workout buddy.
How to adjust a Rope of speed? Adjusting the cable to your height is very simple.
- Grab the Rope by the two handles.
- Step on the cable on the ground with your foot.
- Lift the handles at armpit level
- And adjust the handles
Maintenance
Your Rope speed does not have to give you problems to maintain it in condition. The cable should not tangle or bend when you use it. We recommend carefully coiling it and storing it in an individual bag to prevent it from deforming inside the sports bag, as well as keeping it clean from dust and sweat. By cleaning it occasionally with a cloth and checking the lubrication of the bearings, your Rope speed will follow you in all the WODs. In short, a good Rope speed allows you to maximize your efforts to perform the fastest double jumps without getting tired. It helps you maintain a natural upright posture, bounce with slightly bent knees, and relax your shoulders to focus your attention on coordinating the jump and quick wrist movement.
Do you know the PICSIL speed ropes?
At PICSIL, we have designed different ropes for functional training that adapt to your level and needs.
They are the first ropes we have designed. They are a good option if you want to start with double jumps and need a simple Rope. Both the ABS and ABS 2.0 models are plastic, with double bearings and 2.5mm PVC speed cable.
The Rope Bee Rope is one of the fastest speed Rope on the planet. It consists of very light aluminum handles, a 2mm cable, and its double bearing rotates with unique fluidity. Its ergonomic design adapts to all grips. But what we like most about the Bee Rope is its Click system to adjust the cable height. You just have to press the button on the top of the handle, adjust the cable, and release the button to lock it.
The Rook Rope is the ideal Rope to start in Crossfit, HIIT, boxing, or calisthenics.
It features aluminum handles, double bearings, and a coated steel cable for fast, frictionless spinning. Its lightweight, ergonomic, and non-slip design ensures control and comfort in every jump. Perfect for improving coordination, endurance, and agility from the first workout.
The secret to double or triple jumps is good technique and a good Rope. Now that you know what a good Rope should have, here are 8 exercises to do with the Rope, for beginners and advanced. And you, what do you look for when choosing a good Rope?
