Do you enjoy running as a form of exercise? How about jump roping? We all too often disregard or never even consider jump roping because It’s common to associate this activity with children on a playground. But did you know there are so many health benefits to jump roping for adults? So jump roping vs. running…which is better?
Let’s look at some of the benefits of both and gain a better understanding of the rewards of each type of exercise.
Benefits of Running
There are so many great benefits to running and once you get into the habit of running regularly, it can seep deep into your bones, until one day you realize you HAVE to run. Here are just a few of the benefits to running.
1. Running is Inexpensive
No pricey gym memberships, no bulky equipment to find room for. It’s just you and the pavement…and a good pair of shoes of course.
2. Running is Convenient
You don’t have to schedule a time to workout. Heck, you don’t even have to get in your car and leave the house. All you need to do is throw on your running shoes and lace-up. No excuses
3. Your Mood Improves
Running and being outside boosts your serotonin levels, which over time can improve your mood, relieve anxiety, and help improve sleep. And when you improve all of those areas, you automatically achieve higher energy levels and that’s a win all the way around
4. Running Provides a Change of Scenery
If you are easily bored with exercise, then running just might be the best choice for you. Unless you are running in your living room on a treadmill, your scenery is constantly changing and for many, this change from the monotony that often accompanies exercise may be a pleasant distraction.
5. Running May Improve Your Heart Health
A study of more than 55,000 adults over 15 years showed a positive connection between running and heart health. There was a 30% less risk of death in the runners vs. the non-runners. If you aren’t currently a runner, but want to start, moderation is key. Don’t go from zero to ninety in a week. You should visit with your doctor about the best way to begin running and increase distance and/or speed over time.
Benefits of Jump Roping
Jump roping may be the perfect exercise routine that you may have overlooked. There are so many great benefits to this exercise and it’s super easy and convenient to add to your day. It’s also simple to add to and alternate jump roping exercises. Start with basic jump roping and once you master the mechanics of that, you can add on new moves such as the boxer step, crossover, ankle touch, high kicks, mummy kicks, and many more. Mastering new moves not only help work different muscles but changing up your routine also helps relieve any boredom that you may be experiencing.
1. Improves Coordination
The steady rhythm of jumping rope involves coordination between eyes, arms, and legs. This coordination is not only beneficial for your body, but it’s a fantastic exercise to keep your mind sharp and healthy.
2. Jump Roping is Inexpensive
Much like running, very little is required. You don’t need a gym and you don’t even have to leave your home. In fact, it’s the perfect exercise on a cold winter day. Lace-up your shoes and grab a jump rope and you are good to go.
3. Strengthens Leg Muscles
When done regularly, jump roping can strengthen your leg muscles. Taking time to strengthen these muscles can help prevent injury.
4. Burns Calories
One of the many advantages to regular exercise is burning calories and jumping rope is a great choice for this. For a 150lb. person, jumping rope can burn up to 750 calories per hour vs. 660 calories burned while running at 5.5 mph.
5. Improves Heart Health
Jump roping can get your heart pumping and that’s a great thing for heart health. A 12 week jump rope study revealed that regular jump roping reduced heart disease and helped lower blood pressure.
so… jump roping vs. running? What’s the final verdict?
The question might still remain….jump roping vs. running? Which is better for you? The answer is whichever one you enjoy the most and will stick with. The best exercise is one that’s consistent. So if jumping rope lights you up and keeps you engaged…well jump away. But if lacing up your running shoes and the feeling of pavement under your feet is exciting, keep going! For the majority though, a combination of the two just might be the best bet. Changing your exercise routine from day to day could be your ticket to finally committing to and sticking with an exercise routine.
Now that we have examined jump roping vs. running, let’s look at some morning exercise tips to help you get your day started off right.
