Jump Skipping Rope

With youth sports becoming increasingly competitive, training methods for young athletes are also becoming more and more advanced. One type of training your child may encounter is called plyometrics. However, there has been some debate on whether or not plyometrics is safe, not only for children, but for athletes in general. People in the field of exercise science point out that there is very little, if any, scientific evidence supporting the safety or effectiveness of plyometrics. On the other hand, plyometrics is supported by the American Council on Exercise and the American College of Sports Medicine. The National Strength and Conditioning Association also has a position stand in favor of plyometrics. So, is plyometrics safe or isn't it? What exactly is plyometrics? What are the supposed benefits or cautions against it? Let's take a look at the answers to these questions so that you can make informed decisions about your child's athletic training.

What is plyometrics?

In plyometrics exercises, a muscle is rapidly contracted and lengthened, and then immediately contracted and shortened further. Plyometric exercises force the muscles to contract rapidly from a full stretch position. In the simplest of terms, plyometrics are exercises or drills that involve a jumping movement, sometimes referred to as "jump training." Examples of these types of exercises include skipping, bounding, jumping rope, hopping, lunges, jump squats, sprinting, and clap push-ups.

What are the benefits of plyometrics?

Some describe plyometrics as a successful speed training tool. Plyometrics is used for the lower body, upper body, and core to enhance speed of movement in many specific skills. Speed training drills and exercises focus on improving acceleration and pure speed. Athletes often use plyometrics for enhanced conditioning and to gain more explosive power. Speed of movement and explosive power are related. Developing explosive power is important because athletes with higher power to body weight ratios execute faster, and often dominate athletics.

While most plyometric training is done to increase speed, power, and overall athleticism, it is also seen as an important factor in aiding injury prevention. Plyometric exercises force muscles to contract from a full stretch which is also the position in which muscles tend to be at their weakest point. Since plyometrics exercises train and condition muscles at their weakest points, these muscles are then better prepared to handle this type of stress in a live, game environment.

What are the cautions against plyometrics?

Plyometrics has been likened to high impact aerobics which has been stopped due to risk of injury. Physiologists say that most athletics injuries are caused by "excessive force" on an athlete's musculoskeletal structure. Some feel that bounding off 2 to 3 foot boxes and jumping back up onto another box generates excessive force. Also keep in mind that the bone structure of children and adolescents are relatively immature. The great forces exerted during intensive depth jumps should be avoided. Any intense, repetitive plyometrics exercises should be avoided by young athletes who are still growing.

Even those in favor of plyometric exercises issue warnings and precautions. Plyometrics is considered an advanced form of conditioning which is ideal for enhancing the performance of a well trained athlete. Even then, well trained athletes should start off slow, seek expert supervision, and obtain proper shoes and equipment. Some experts even recommend a thorough grounding in weight-training before starting plyometrics.

Other guidelines include the following:

Simple drills first. Skipping, hopping, and bounding should be introduced first. More intense, demanding exercises such as depth jumps should be limited to thoroughly conditioned athletes.

Proper Warm-Up is essential. An athlete's body needs to be prepared for the intensity of plyometric exercises.

Proper technique is very important. If an athlete is feeling too tired to perform the exercises with proper technique, plyometric training for that session should stop.

Don't over do it. Athletes should have enough rest and recovery time between exercises and between training sessions.

Avoid hard surfaces. Grass is one of the best surfaces for plyometrics exercises. Do not perform plyometrics exercises on concrete, asphalt, or other hard surfaces.

Get good shoes. Impact is inevitable. Use well-cushioned shoes that are stable and can absorb some of this impact.

Should you allow your child to participate in plyometric training?

There are actually thousands of plyometrics exercises ranging in intensity. Common children activities such as hop-scotch, jumping rope, and even jumping jacks can be characterized as plyometric exercise. Regular participation in a plyometric training program may help to strengthen bone and facilitate weight control in children. Some suggest that moderate jumps can be included in training of young children. Less intensive exercises can be used; it's the depth jumps that should be avoided. With qualified coaching and age-appropriate instruction, plyometrics training can be a safe, effective, and fun form of conditioning and athletic training for children and adolescents. But like any other athletic activity, there is a risk of injury if the intensity or amount of training exceeds the physical ability of the child involved. With plyometrics it's best to start slow, then listen and watch. Watch that your child is not getting too tired to do the exercises with proper technique. These exercises should not be performed when your child is fatigued. Listen if your child complains of pain or discomfort and immediately end the training session. Most of all educate yourself so that you can help monitor your child's activities.

Written by Stacie Mahoe
Owner of www.AllAboutFastpitch.com
Get free tips from Stacie at www.FreeFastpitchTips.com

Wooden Handles Fitness Exercise Jump Skipping Rope $8.49 Description:Wooden Handles Fitness Exercise Jump Skipping Rope.Made of nylon fabric rope and smooth wooden Handles, this Jumping Rope is so durable and comfortable for your daily use.This Skipping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance or fitness training.Simply and lightweight Wooden Handles Jumping Rope both fit you and your child.Using this rope do exercise and keep health is a good chioce.Bright colored Fitness Skip Rope will provide hours of great outdoor play.Handle Size (each one): ~5inch(12.7cm) x 3/4inch(1,9cm) (L*W)Rope Length: ~93inch(236cm).Color: as the picture show.Weight: 139g.Package content:1 x Skipping Rope

Professional Skipping Jump Jumping Rope Green $9.99 Description:Rope skipping is a kind of sports good for cardiovascular function which can be done at anytime and anywhere. If you continue exercising, it can not only accelerate blood circulating and metabolism, but also burn the fat, frap the muscle and create perfect figure.Soft handing, free wheeling rope connected to the axletree, durable Jumping Rope with good tenacity, body whipping proofingFor professional Skipping Rope playersSuch Professional Jump Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingFoam covered plastic for handle makes you feel free and confortable while using this Jump Rope for jumping exercisesLength: ~2.5mWeight: 195g

Purple and White Professional Jumping Jump Skipping Rope $9.99 Description:Rope skipping is a kind of sports good for cardiovascular function which can be done at anytime and anywhere. If you continue exercising, it can not only accelerate blood circulating and metabolism, but also burn the fat, frap the muscle and create perfect figure.Good appearance, small and light, handlebar fly off proofing designSoft handing, free wheeling rope connected to the axletree, durable Jumping Rope with good tenacity, body whipping proofingFor professional Skipping Rope playersSuch Professional Jump Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingFoam covered plastic for handle makes you feel free and confortable while using this Chinese Jump Rope for jumping exercisesLength: ~2.8mWeight: 179g

Professional Skipping Jumping Jump Rope Gray $9.99 Description:Rope skipping is a kind of sports good for cardiovascular function which can be done at anytime and anywhere. If you continue exercising, it can not only accelerate blood circulating and metabolism, but also burn the fat, frap the muscle and create perfect figure.Soft handing, free wheeling rope connected to the axletree, durable Jumping Rope with good tenacity, body whipping proofingFor professional Skipping Rope playersSuch Professional Jump Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingFoam covered plastic for handle makes you feel free and confortable while using this Chinese Jump Rope for jumping exercisesLength: ~2.4m (not included the handle)Weight: 157g

Red and White Professional Jump Jumping Skipping Rope $10.99 Description:Rope skipping is a kind of sports good for cardiovascular function which can be done at anytime and anywhere. If you continue exercising, it can not only accelerate blood circulating and metabolism, but also burn the fat, frap the muscle and create perfect figure.Good appearance, small and light, handlebar fly off proofing designSoft handing, free wheeling rope connected to the axletree, durable Jumping Rope with good tenacity, body whipping proofingFor professional Skipping Rope playersSuch Professional Jump Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingFoam covered plastic for handle makes you feel free and confortable while using this Jump Rope for jumping exercisesLength: ~2.8mWeight: 179g

Girl Jumping Skipping Jump Rope $8.99 Description:Best under servant for losing weight if you exercise 40 minutes by the Jumping Rope everyday!!!Chinese Jump Rope with foam cushion grips and rope scuff guardSuch Girl Jumping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingFoam covered plastic for handle makes you feel free and confortable while using this rope for jumping exercisesDurable covered rope takes an important role in slender figure and health fitnessGood gift for students so that they can do a good job in their sports testColor: Pink and BlueLength: ~2.4mWeight: 151g

LCD Digital Counter Adjustable Skipping Jump Rope $12.2 Description:LCD Digital Counter Adjustable Skipping Jump Rope.This Digital Jump Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance or fitness training.Soft and durable plastic rope with hand grips for long time use.Non-Slip grips will make your feel free and confortable while using this rope.Adjustable Jump Rope is easily customized for your height.Easy to read LCD display and counts jump times up to 99,999.This LCD Counter Jump Rope with one button for easy operation.Perfect for jumping on indoor flatness surfaces.It would makes great party favor or stocking stuffer.Specification:LCD displays 5 digital.Max. Times: 99,999Count precision: plus or minus1%Power: 1 x LR44 batteryRope length (Max.): ~108"Handle Dimension: ~7.1"(L) x 1.3"(W) x 1.1"(T)Weight: 181gPackage Included:1 x LCD Counter Skipping Rope

Crystal Skipping Jumping Jump Rope with Bamboo Handles $8.49 Description:Put a little swing in your next workout with this Crystal Skipping Rope.Soft and durable plastic rope with bamboo handles for long time use.Crystal rope is perfect for jumping on all surfaces.Non-Slip grips will make your feel free and confortable while using this rope.This Bamboo Jump Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance or fitness training.It would makes great party favor or stocking stuffer.Lightweight and compact design Crystal Jumping Rope can be carried to anywhere.Handle Size (each one): ~12(L) x 2.3(D)cmRope Length: ~240cmWeight: 91gPackage Included:1 x Crystal Jump Rope

Jumping Jump Skipping Rope with Wooden Duck Handles $8.49 Description:Make your little one smile when you give them this adorable Duck Jump Rope!The tigar handles are made of wood, and the rope is made of nylon material.Bright colored Wooden Jumping Rope will provide hours of great outdoor play.This Skipping Rope is durable and made to last.The paint is non-toxic and lead free.A great gift for any kid!Handle Size (each one): ~5(L) x 3.2(W) x 11.4(H)cmRope Length: ~205cmWeight: 77gRecommend for ages 4 or older!Package Included:1 x Duck Jumping Rope

Free Shipping CALORIE 3M Digital Skipping Jump Rope Counter Timer LCD Wholesale/Retail $8.42 CALORIE 3M Digital Skipping Jump Rope Counter Timer LCD

Children Skipping with a Skipping Rope $39.99 Children Skipping with a Skipping Rope - Giclee Print

Girl Jump Jumping Skipping Rope with Counter $8.99 Description:Brand New Skipping Rope with Counter, automatically counts as you skip up to 999, counter with reset buttonBest under servant for losing weight if you exercise 40 minutes by the Jumping Rope everyday!!!Chinese Jump Rope with foam cushion grips and rope scuff guardSuch Girl Jumping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingFoam covered plastic for handle makes you feel free and confortable while using this rope for jumping exercisesDurable covered rope takes an important role in slender figure and health fitnessGood gift for students so that they can do a good job in their sports testColor of the rope may come in different with the picture shownLength: ~2.4mWeight: 151g

LCD Digital Calorie Skipping Jump Rope Counter $12.61 - With insulation membrane, ensure the battery power is full - Auto dormancy, save power - Adjust rope-extra-long 3m rope is easily customized for your height - Rotator-Swivel-action head rotates in both directions, allowing you to jump forward, backward or crisscross. - Display LCD, you can clearly read and calories burned. - Anti-Skidding and frosting humanized design will make you feel to be more comfortable - Power supply: Built-in 1.5v button cell, can be replace - Color: Blue - Rope length: 2.9M - Material: Plastic(Handle), PVC(Rope)

Crystal Blue Sports Exercise Training Plastic Jump Skipping Rope $7.99 Description:Exercise Skipping Rope is a kind of sports good for cardiovascular function which can be done at anytime and anywhere. If you continue exercising, it can not only accelerate blood circulating and metabolism, but also burn the fat, frap the muscle and create perfect figure.Sports Training Jump Rope is made of crystal plastic in blueSuch Professional Plastic Skpping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingBlue Jump Rope calble length: ~2.5mWeight: 146gNot suitable for children under the age of 36 months.

Sports Exercise Training Crystal Kelly Plastic Jump Skipping Rope $7.99 Description:Exercise Skipping Rope is a kind of sports good for cardiovascular function which can be done at anytime and anywhere. If you continue exercising, it can not only accelerate blood circulating and metabolism, but also burn the fat, frap the muscle and create perfect figure.Sports Training Jump Rope is made of crystal plastic in kellySuch Professional Plastic Skpping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingKelly Jump Rope calble length: ~2.5mWeight: 146gNot suitable for children under the age of 36 months.

Black Foam Coated Handles Jumping Skipping Jump Rope Yellow $10.2 Description:Black Foam Coated Handles Jumping Skipping Jump Rope Yellow.This Yellow Jumping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports, exercise, endurance and fitness training.Put a little swing in your next workout with this Yellow Skipping Rope.Soft plastic rope with foam hand grips for long time use.Red rope is perfect for jumping on most surfaces.Non-Slip grips will make your feel free and confortable while using this rope.It would makes great party favor or stocking stuffer.Lightweight and compact, this Foam Jump Rope can be carried to anywhere.Handle Dimension (each one): ~5.3"(L) x 1.25"(D)Rope Length: ~100.6"Weight: 182gPackage Included:1 x Yellow Jump Rope

Green Training Skipping Jumping Jump Rope Black Hand Grips $10.2 Description:Green Training Skipping Jumping Jump Rope Black Hand Grips.This Green Skipping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports, exercise, endurance and fitness training.Put a little swing in your next workout with this Training Jumping Rope.Soft plastic rope with foam hand grips for long time use.Green rope is perfect for jumping on most surfaces.Non-Slip grips will make your feel free and confortable while using this rope.It would makes great party favor or stocking stuffer.Lightweight and compact, this Training Jump Rope can be carried to anywhere.Handle Dimension (each one): ~5.3"(L) x 1.25"(D)Rope Length: ~100.6"Weight: 182gPackage Included:1 x Green Jump Rope

Black Hand Grips Training Jumping Skipping Jump Red Rope $10.2 Description:Black Hand Grips Training Jumping Skipping Jump Red Rope.This Red Jumping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports, exercise, endurance and fitness training.Put a little swing in your next workout with this Red Skipping Rope.Soft plastic rope with foam hand grips for long time use.Red rope is perfect for jumping on most surfaces.Non-Slip grips will make your feel free and confortable while using this rope.It would makes great party favor or stocking stuffer.Lightweight and compact, this Training Jump Rope can be carried to anywhere.Handle Dimension (each one): ~5.3"(L) x 1.25"(D)Rope Length: ~100.6"Weight: 182gPackage Included:1 x Red Jump Rope

Skipping Rope $19.99 Julia Letheld Hahn Skipping Rope - Premium Poster

Calorie Digital Skipping Jump Rope LCD Counter Timer $12.49 Product Feature:Calorie Digital Skipping Jump Rope LCD Counter TimerCalorie Jump Rope: The handle from the electron liquid crystal displays and PVC materials, the handle design is very scientific and reasonable, suitable changes in the wrist, the handle design of the head with two holes.Calorie Skipping Jump Rope length can be adjustable with 3 meters.Clearly shows that the number of rope skipping, calories, fat, etc.You will be able to calculate the consumption of energy and burning fat after input your weight.Jump Rope with soft non-slip design, making you more comfortable skipping.Display:Clock Mode: Displays the time at that time;Timer mode: timer display;Counting mode: Showing the number of sports;Calories mode: Showing the number of kilocalories of energy consumption;Fat mode: Showing the exercise to reduce the number of fat gramsTechnical parameters:Display: LCD liquid crystal display 4.Views :1-9999 times.Time: 0 minutes 0 seconds -99 minutes and 59 seconds.Counting error: + -1%.Voice prompts: greater than or equal to 65 dB.Power battery: LR44Color: White BlueWeight: 180gPackage:1 x LCD Counter Jump Rope

Sports Exercise Training Jumping Skipping Jump Rope Red $10.2 Description:Sports Exercise Training Jumping Skipping Jump Rope Red.This Red Jumping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports, exercise, endurance and fitness training.Put a little swing in your next workout with this Exercise Jumping Rope.Soft plastic rope with foam hand grips for long time use.Red rope is perfect for jumping on most surfaces.Non-Slip grips will make your feel free and confortable while using this rope.It would makes great party favor or stocking stuffer.Lightweight and compact, this Training Jump Rope can be carried to anywhere.Handle Dimension (each one): ~5.3"(L) x 1.25"(D)Rope Length: ~100.6"Weight: 182gPackage Included:1 x Red Jump Rope

Tiger Design Jump Jumping Skipping Rope Wooden Handles $8.49 Description:Make your little one smile when you give them this adorable Tiger Jump Rope!The tigar handles are made of wood, and the rope is made of nylon material.Bright colored Wooden Jumping Rope will provide hours of great outdoor play.This Skipping Rope is durable and made to last.The paint is non-toxic and lead free.A great gift for any kid!Handle Size (each one): ~3.6(L) x 3.2(W) x 11.8(H)cmRope Length: ~205cmWeight: 72gRecommend for ages 4 or older!Package Included:1 x Tiger Jumping Rope

Kids Jumping Jump Skipping Rope with Wooden Cat Handles $8.49 Description:Adorable Cat Jump Rope with durable nylon material rope and wooden handles is great for child.The handles are made of solid wood and painted with excellent craftsmanship, and them will make your child feel free and confortable while using this rope.This Skipping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance or fitness training.Wooden Jumping Rope would makes great party favor or stocking stuffer.Handle Size (each one): ~3.8(L) x 3.2(W) x 12(H)cmRope Length: ~205cmWeight: 77gRecommend for ages 4 or older!Package Included:1 x Cat Jumping Rope

Fox Shaped Wooden Handles Kids Jumping Jump Skipping Rope $8.49 Description:Make your little one smile when you give them this adorable Fox Jump Rope!The tigar handles are made of wood, and the rope is made of nylon material.Bright colored Wooden Jumping Rope will provide hours of great outdoor play.This Skipping Rope is durable and made to last.The paint is non-toxic and lead free.A great gift for any kid!Handle Size (each one): ~3.2(L) x 3.2(W) x 12.2(H)cmRope Length: ~205cmWeight: 77gRecommend for ages 4 or older!Package Included:1 x Fox Jumping Rope

Moppet Shaped Jumping Jump Skipping Rope Wooden Handles $8.49 Description:Adorable Moppet Jump Rope with durable nylon material rope and wooden handles is great for child.The handles are made of solid wood and painted with excellent craftsmanship, and them will make your child feel free and confortable while using this rope.This Skipping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance or fitness training.Wooden Jumping Rope would makes great party favor or stocking stuffer.Handle Size (each one): ~4.6(L) x 3.2(W) x 11.5(H)cmRope Length: ~205cmWeight: 77gRecommend for ages 4 or older!Package Included:1 x Moppet Jumping Rope

Sports Fitness Exercise Jumping Skipping Plastic Rope $7.99 Descriptions:Best under servant for losing weight if you exercise 40 minutes by the Jumping Rope everyday!!!Skipping Rope with a durable plastic rope PVC construction;Such Fitness Jump Rope is ideal for training; Perfect for sports endurance/fitness trainingSponge covered plastic for handle makes you feel free and confortable while using this type of Jump Rope for jumping exercisesAdult length; Sports Fitness Exercise Jumping Skipping Plastic Rope takes a important role in Slender Figure and health fitnessGood gift for students so that they can do a good job in their sports test of Skipping RopeWeight: 146g

Anime Teenager with Skipping Rope $6 Anime Teenager with Skipping Rope

Skipping Rope - Leather $13.95 Skipping Rope - Leather

Sports Exercise Fabric Wooden Handle Jump Jumping Skipping Rope $6.99 Description:This Jumping Rope is designed specially for sports lovers.You can keep fit by doing excise with this Skipping Rope.Designed with wooden handle for easy gripping.The fabric materail makes you free from hurt caused by the rope.You can do the excise at anytime and anywhere.If you continue exercising with this jumpig rope, it can not only accelerate blood circulating and metabolism, but also burn the fat, frap the muscle and create perfect figure.The Wooden Handle Jump Rope is perfect for sports endurance/fitness training.Color: it may come in different with the picture shown as depending on our stockSize: 190cm long (not included the handle). Weight: 103g.Package contents:1x Jumping Rope

Angels Skipping Rope $49.99 Angels Skipping Rope - Giclee Print

Woman Skipping Rope $14.99 Eadweard Muybridge Woman Skipping Rope - Art Print

Skipping Rope - Vinyl, 8 ft $9.95 Skipping Rope - Vinyl, 8 ft

Soft Fabric Skip Rope Fitness Exercise Speed Skipping with Wooden Handles $5.49 Description:An excellent way to keep fit, skipping can be done anywhere, anytimeThis Exercise Skipping Rope has been specially developed for home training or taking to the gym.Perfect for fitness training including exercise, boxing, and many other sport activities.Made with coloured and soft fabric so as to prevent the Jump Rope from hurting the legs.Two Wooden handles is easier to handle firmly and durable to use.Fitness Skip Rope is also great for speed skipping, boxing and martial arts.Overall Length: 233cm(included two handles)Weight: 104gPackage included:1 x Speed Skipping Rope

107' Length Adjustable Sports Jumping Skipping Counter Rope $10.2 Description:Adjustable Sports Jumping Skipping Rope with Counter.This Jumping Skipping Rope is ideal for training, perfect for sports endurance or fitness training.Soft and durable fabric rope with hand grips for long time use.Foam padded plastic handle will make your feel free and confortable while using this rope.Sports Jumping Rope is easily customized for your height.Counts jump times up to 999.This Adjustable Jumping Rope with one button for easy operation.Perfect for jumping on indoor flatness surfaces.Handle size: 6 1/8"L x 1 1/8"DTotal length: 107d"Weight: 162.5gPackage content:1 x Skipping Counter Rope

Jessica Ennis Weighted Jump Rope. $6.99 This weighted jump rope from the Jessica Ennis range gives you a great cardiovascular workout and helps to tone and strengthen muscles all over. 274.3cm long skipping ropePVC rope with foam grip covered weighted handles (150g per handle).

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