Now some simple methods to derive the ideal rope length are to take the athlete’s height and add a specific amount to it to derive the final rope length excluding the handles. Below is the model we use.
Athlete height: 5’5” or shorter – Add 2’10”
Athlete height: 5’6” to 6’4” – Add 3’
Athlete height: 6’5 and taller – Add 3’2”
We always leave the handles out of the equation because of the variety of sizes available on the market. Measuring the rope length only will ensure better accuracy.
A second method is to take a round trip measurement from the base of the athlete’s chest near the nipple, down under one foot and back up to the same point on the chest. Make sure the athlete is standing tall and upright in their bounding posture with feet flat on the ground and wears their normal work out shoes while taking the measurement.
Invariably, the two methods will derive a length within a couple inches of each other in which case choose the longer measurement. If by chance the two measurements are significantly apart from each other by more than 3 inches then take the average of the 2.
The principles that I just described are based on the broadest common denominator, the average athlete. As an athlete progresses to higher levels of efficiency and mechanics it is not uncommon for that athlete to reduce their rope length which speeds up the turnover rate but also forces the athlete to operate at much tighter tolerances between their body and the rope. The key is to find the right tolerance levels that the athlete can operate successfully across broad time and modal domains with jump rope in hand.
Our teaching philosophy is based on the mantra “Decrease Your Variables and Increase Your Odds for Success”. Follow that mantra and master those principles and the rest is as easy as an air squat. Now go double under till you double over!
