Years ago, I was athletic, toned, and strong. But years, professional growth, and a growing family have resulted in overall physical health and fitness having been put on the backburner.
More recently, I have decided that in order to truly have a well balanced life, I needed to focus on my own personal health. I needed to find my inner and outer strength so that I could perform better as a parent, a spouse, a leader, and a professional.
Fast forward several weeks and I found myself rejoining a CrossFit box and working on my eating habits. But as anyone who stopped working out for any length of time can tell you, going back is not easy. It feels like you are starting from scratch, your previous PRs seem almost magical as you struggle to lift any amount of serious weights, and the jump rope becomes a whip eager to leave its mark on your arm, your thigh, your calf.
Which is why I was so surprised when I walked into my local box and used my trainer’s rope for the first time. At 5’1, the trainer is exactly my height, and her rope was the perfect size. Prepared for my “50 Shades” moment, I was happily surprised when, after a few attempts, I was able to start throwing in some doubles.
Double-unders or “doubles” as they are better known in the CrossFit arena is when the jump rope makes two passes around the body for every jump. In other words, you swing the rope around your body twice with each jump.
I could not believe it. I was so thrilled that I immediately went online to research various jump ropes and to find one that would be the perfect fit for me. After a short while, I found it – the same style I had used at the gym.
I went online, I watched the videos, I customized it based on all the information available on the site – length based on my height, thickness based on my ability (beginner), color (went against my monochromatic nature and ordered the hot pink). I was careful in every selection; after all it wasn’t cheap and I didn’t want to make a mistake.
Four days later it arrived in all of its athletic glory – and that is where we are at today. Today is the day I never thought would happen; the day I was excited to get a jump rope in the mail!
It arrived nicely packaged and with a nice carrying case. But the proof was yet to be seen. Could I perform with it?
Still in my business clothes, sans shoes, I pushed aside some chairs and made space in my living room. Took a deep breath and started jumping.
The jump rope was perfect. I still am not a double under master, but the difference that a properly fitted rope makes is undeniable. There, in my living room, I was able to intersperse my jumps with doubles. With practice and time, I know I will be stringing them together unbroken.
The rope is not a “cure all.” It will not suddenly make you a CrossFit master. But it will make the transition easier and the whip marks less frequent.
Am I happy with my new rope? What can I say? “Bring on the doubles! I am ready!”
Rx Jump Rope – Black Ops handles with Trans Black Cable Buff 3.4 9’0″
