I enjoy sharing the story of how I made my decision to devote myself to using jump rope as my chosen cardio workout. It was early in my professional dance career (early 70s) and right about the time that Dr. Kenneth Cooper had coined the term "aerobics" and came out with his book on the Aerobic Points System.
At the Cooper Institute, he had conducted exercise studies to determine a point value for each commonly known exercise activity that could be performed for a duration of 12 minutes straight. It was his determination that 12 minutes would be the minimum duration to benefit cardiovascular improvement. So, I turned immediately to the table of point values to determine what exercise would give me the most cardio "bang for my buck". You guessed it.
JUMP ROPE.
Thirty-five years later I am still spinning my rope routinely to keep off the excess body fat, maintain muscle tone and stamina.
Not only could I get the most efficient exercise in the least amount of time, but I could also enhance my coordination for dance performance. Not to mention the fun I have had and the money I have made over years of teaching Jump rope techniques and performing my freestyle exhibitions. A wise choice early on has given me the ability to stick to cardio exercise for the FUN of it.
What's more, when you attain a sense of mastery with a particular activity you will tend to identify with it which results in continuing to do it. When you receive recognition for your expertise, you will seek opportunities for that. Think about it. If you are in a gym environment and have a choice between getting on a piece of cardio equipment OR pulling a jump rope out of your gym bag and turning some heads...which would you be more likely to do?
As a former chorus dancer, I always say that, "everyone performs better before an audience." Seek the company of others in exercise appropriate settings and tell yourself you are on stage. Tell yourself that others are watching. This way you will be apt to push yourself more than if alone or unnoticed. Works for me!
Since I am more motivated by non-linear activities that give me movement creativity, this made Jump rope my best choice. Choose your cardio, wisely and make sure to factor in your personality type and needs.
Should you prefer to "disassociate" instead of "associate" with the cardio activity, then choose movements that can be put on "autopilot" while you watch TV...like a treadmill or other machine. Either way, you will get the exercise.
About this Author
Debra Stefan is the founder and director of "Live-In-Fitness" residential services in the Las Vegas area of Henderson, Nevada for weight-loss guests with 30-90 day programs enabling behavioral change for a fit lifestyle. She is the first to offer a residential fitness and weight loss "Biggest Loser" style program outside of the institutional format. Debra is a fitness speaker/educator, certified in Personal Fitness Training, Youth Fitness, Senior Fitness, and Golf Fitness. Today she has 37 years of professional involvement in the fitness industry and continues education to stay current with the ever-evolving industry. She is a true veteran fitness professional.
Debra Stefan, CFT
Founder and Director of Live-In-Fitness
http://www.Live-In-Fitness.com
http://www.DebraStefan.com
YouTube Channel "VegasFitness1"
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