How to Make a Durable Jump-Rope
Making a nearly indestructible jump rope is fairly simple. This jump rope has the right weight to turn well and the handles are made so that it is easy to grip and easy to turn.
Here are the complete instructions
You will need:
- 9 to 10 foot braided polyester, 1/4″ to 5/16″ thick.
- 2 shiny, steel 3/8″ washers. (not galvanized)
- 1/2″ PVC pipe, at least 1 foot long.
Lowes, Home Depot and other home improvement stores sell braided polyester rope by the foot. It is a colorful and soft rope. Do not get “poly” or polypropylene rope. Polypropylene rope is very stiff and looks and feels like plastic. It is too stiff and too rough.
Making the Jump Rope
Saw or cut the PVC pipe into two five inch pieces. Sand off any rough edges with 200 grit sandpaper. Also, sand the pipe pieces themselves. These will be the handles.
Thread the rope through the PVC handles. Thread the washers onto the rope after the PVC pipe. Finally, tie a knot in each end of the rope. You are almost done. Check the rope and see if it is the right size. A rope that is too long is just as hard to jump as one that is too short.
Fitting the Jump Rope
When fitting the jump rope, stand on the rope and hold it up by the handles, as in the picture. The ends should come up to your armpits. As you can see, the jump rope is a little long for him. Fortunately, these jump ropes are very easy to adjust.
Jumping Rope
Now that your jump rope is finished, you can test it out!
Jumping rope is good for the heart. It strengthens the upper and lower body and burns a lot of calories in a short time.
Jumping at a moderate speed of 70 to 120 turns per minute for 15 minutes burns 150 to 200 calories. That is as much as running a mile in ten minutes, but with half the impact on your knees and ankles.
Nearly Indestructible
The PVC jump rope and handles are much tougher than most jump ropes sold in stores.
This comes from Mr. Health Patriot at Instructibles
