Double unders are one of the basic exercises of any functional training. But doing them correctly requires coordination, agility, dexterity and hours of training, in addition to good material. Do you know what characteristics a good jump rope should have? We give you the keys to choose the best one, like those from PICSIL .

Speed ​​jump rope: what is it?

If you practice cross-training, you need a speed rope . Because? Because you need it to be fast to perform double jumps and to connect them fluidly during the WOD. Speed ​​jump ropes are made up of three elements:

• a cable
• mangoes
• bearings

Therefore, if you are looking to go fast, we do not recommend the classic toy jump ropes, especially since they do not incorporate at least one bearing inside the handle that will help you spin the cable.

Characteristics of a good rope

In addition to being made up of a cable, handles and bearings , a good crossfit speed rope must have the following characteristics:

Weight and balanced

Bearings

Along with the weight and correct balance of the rope, its bearings are essential for efficient jumping: they are fast, easy and fluid . It is important to check that the bearings work correctly, that they do not get stuck or slow down when linking several double jumps and that they are well greased to prevent wear.

Rope twist

Turning is the key to a speed rope. So that you don't have a hard time doing the Double Unders, it is essential that you check that the speed rope rotates fluidly . If you notice a flaw in the turn, your technique will suffer as you will have to compensate with faster wrist movement or slower jumps. In the end, you will end up more tired and lose time in the WOD.

Wire

The speed of the rope depends on the cable you use. It can be made of plastic or metal, and its thickness can vary depending on your jumping level. If you are just starting out, it is better to choose a thicker cable so that you can control the movement and focus on the technique. If you are a doubles expert and looking to perform triple jumps, thin 2mm cables are the best option as they allow you to go very fast and literally cut the air with each jump.

Ergonomics

Jumping well is jumping comfortably. It is important that you look at the handles of the speed rope to check that you feel comfortable with it when jumping. Good ergonomics of the handles are characterized by an easy, firm grip adapted to your hand .

Adjustment

It is important to finally check that the jump rope adjusts to your height easily. Some jump ropes do not offer the option to modify the cable length once you have adjusted it, so you will have to buy another cable for this. Ideally, after adjusting it, you can move the handles on the same cable to improve that adjustment; or even lend it to your training colleague.

How to adjust a speed jump rope? Adjusting the cable to your height is very simple.

• Grab the rope by both handles.
• Step on the cable on the ground with your foot.
• Bring the handles to armpit level
• And adjust the handles

Maintenance

Your speed jump rope doesn't have to give you any trouble keeping it in shape. The cable does not have to tangle or bend when you are going to use it. We recommend that you roll it up carefully and store it in an individual bag to prevent it from becoming deformed inside the sports bag, as well as to prevent it from getting dirty with dust and sweat. By cleaning it from time to time with a cloth and checking the lubrication of the bearings, your speed rope will follow you in all WODs. In short, a good speed rope allows you to optimize your efforts to the maximum to perform the fastest double unders without getting tired. It helps you maintain a natural upright posture, bouncing with your knees slightly bent and relaxing your shoulders to focus your attention on coordinating jumps and quick wrist movements.

Do you know PicSil speed jump ropes?

At PICSIL , we have designed different ropes for functional training that adapt to your level and your needs.

ABS

They are the first jump ropes we have designed. They are a good option if you want to start double unders and need a simple rope. Both the ABS and ABS 2.0 models are made of plastic, with double bearings and 2.5mm speed PVC cable. Discover the different designs of the ABS 2.0 Special Edition jump rope.

Bee Rope

The Bee Rope is one of the fastest speed ropes on the planet. It consists of very light aluminum handles, a 2mm cable and its double bearing rotates with a 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 height of the cable. Simply press the button on the top of the handle, adjust the cable, and release the button to lock.

Do you need to change the cable of your skipping rope? We also have replacement cables for your speed jump rope at your disposal in the PicSil online store .

• 2.5mm thick and 3m long
• 2mm thick x 3m long
• 2mm thick x 3.5m long