What is it?
A simple aerobic exercise where a person repeatedly jumps over a rope. You can skip with more than one person with a long rope or even skip without a rope.
Who can skip?
Everyone can skip - that is the beauty of it. However, be careful not to trip over the rope.
Why should you take up skipping?
Skipping is a great way of getting fit. It can strengthen your muscles, improve your speed, endurance and give you greater flexibility.
How else can skipping help me?
Skipping is used by a number of athletes to help them in their sport. Boxers are probably the most famous example.
It helps them to improve their balance and co-ordination.
"Try telling Lennox Lewis that skipping is for girls! I think it's a great way to keep fit"
Do any celebrities skip?
Matthew Pinsent and Frank Bruno are two people famous for their skipping. Bruno used it in training on a regular basis and Pinsent admits it helps kept him in trim for his rowing.
How does skipping compare with other aerobic activities?
One study showed that 10 minutes of skipping can have the same health benefits as a 30 minute run but this will depend on how good at skipping you are. It is also a cheap and fun way of getting fit.