How to Use the Rope in Rhythmic Gymnastics

Many kids know how to jump rope. However, how many know really advanced tricks like double under and throwing while doing a forward roll? This article will teach you the basics of using a rope in rhythmic gymnastics.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Jumping with the Rope

1
Know how to do the basic single under. In rhythmic gymnastics, you must jump only once as the rope swings a full circle. Some beginners tend to jump twice in only one circle, which is easier, but this is not as pretty. If you are just getting started with jumping rope, make sure not to do that, as it will be harder to get out of the habit later on.
- Always point your toes. This is harder than you think because it will require you to jump higher. It will take reminding to do it every time at first, but it will become a habit later on.
- Straighten your legs. Some beginners tuck in their legs so they do not need to jump as high. This is not allowed in rhythmic gymnastics, however, as it is not pretty.
When you are comfortable, try running in place while jumping rope. You can tuck your legs while doing this, but make sure not to donkey kick. Move on to jumping backwards while running in place when you get comfortable with this, too.
You can keep them crisscrossed the whole time at the beginning, but move on to alternating between uncrossed and crossed when you can. Keep in mind that you do not have to be able to do this for very long; most routines consist of only a few jumps to show off your skills. Like before, move on to jumping backwards once you are comfortable, and you can do it while running in place both forwards and backwards, too.
This can be challenging, so don't try it unless you can do 100 singles in a row. This trick requires you to jump once but swing the rope in a full circle twice. This will require a higher jump then single under, but don't jump higher than you need, or else you will tire yourself out. As it is easier, you may tuck your legs, but don't pike or donkey kick. If you are really comfortable with it, you can stretch your legs out as with single under, but this takes much time to accomplish.^{[1]XResearch source}
Advertisement

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Swinging the Rope

Make sure to use your wrist and not the whole arm as this will make the trick more pretty, less tiring, and quicker to do. You can switch back and forth between both hands once you are comfortable.
Hold one end of the rope in one hand and the other end in the other hand. Now move your hands so they form a sideways figure eight. This should result in the rope forming an X shape.
Now hold the hand holding the rope above your head. The other hand should either be in whatever position required, but if not specified, held out to the side. Now as you did before, swing it either clockwise or counterclockwise, switching between hands if you wish.
Fold the rope in half and hold the ends together in the other hand. Now swing the rope in a figure eight shape again, letting it pass to the left/right of the arm in front of you and then to the opposite side. You can do this with both arms.
Do balances such as the Y-scale or needle while swinging it, or front and back body waves. Swing the rope as you run into a leap, or do ballet movements. Or use it as a preparation for a more complicated move or rope trick.
Advertisement

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Throwing the Rope

Now, swing the arm holding the end forward and then back up, and use the other arm to catch the other end. Experiment with the amount of force you use to find the perfect one; it can vary from the weight of the rope or a move you are doing while performing the trick.
Swing your arms up and let go. Catch the rope again with both hands in the middle. Try to get both ends of the rope about the same length. Now swing your arms up and let go again. This time, catch one end in one hand and the other in the other hand. You should have returned to the position you started in. This trick can be continued on and on as long as desired.
Now as you swing the rope up, use your arm to swing it forward with extra force and let go. This is a good time to get into a cartwheel, forward roll, or front walkover. Depending on how long the trick will take and how much space it will need, you will have to adjust your force and the degree in which you swing the rope forward.
Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Tips

Listen to your body. You can extend your training time and try advanced exercises if you feel good and ready, but in return, you should stop if you experience pain in your arm, hip, back, ankle, or knee.
Thanks
Helpful0 Not Helpful0