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Jump Rope Heel-Toe

AdvancedCardioTier T4

Aim: to build rhythm, coordination and conditioning. Good for: Home cardio with a jump rope; Rhythm and foot control; Conditioning intervals.

Targets: Hip
Muscles: Gastrocnemius, Soleus
CardioRhythmAdvanced jump rope

When to use

This is for experienced jump-rope users who want a footwork-based cardio challenge. Use it in the main part of a session after a warm-up. The goal is to build rhythm, coordination and conditioning.

Stop if

Stop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness or joint pain that does not ease.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home
  • Works at the gym

Home Options

  • jump rope

Dosage

4

Sets

20 sec

Reps / Time

90 sec

Rest

controlled

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Hold the rope handles at hip height with the rope behind you.
  • Prepare the heel-then-toe two-contact figure.
  1. She stands holding the rope handles at hip height, the rope arcing behind her heels.

    Step 1 of 5

    Stand holding the rope handles at hip height. Let the rope rest behind you.

  2. Her right heel touches the floor forward as her left foot hops the passing rope, the right leg extended.

    Step 2 of 5

    Touch your right heel forward on the floor as your left foot hops the rope.

  3. Her right toe touches the floor beside her left foot as the next rope pass clears, the right knee soft under her.

    Step 3 of 5

    Touch your right toe beside your left foot on the next turn of the rope.

  4. She alternates the working foot, the left heel touching forward then the left toe beside the right foot as the rope passes each hop.

    Step 4 of 5

    Switch feet. Touch your left heel forward, then your left toe beside your right foot.

  5. She stands holding the rope handles at hip height, the rope arcing behind her heels.

    Step 5 of 5

    Return to the start. Hold the handles at hip height with the rope behind you.

Form Cues

  • Keep the hopping foot light
  • Keep a soft bend in the knees
  • Tap the heel forward, then the toe beside you
  • Keep your elbows near your sides

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Reaching the heel too far forward
  • Landing flat and hard on the hopping foot
  • Tapping too hard on the floor
  • Losing the rope rhythm

Safety Information

This is a high-impact jump drill. Clear a flat, non-slip floor with room for the rope to swing. Skip it if you have knee, ankle or balance problems. Try marching in place with the rope held still.