JumpRopeRun Program for Schools

A new sport, JumpRopeSprint racing, is on the verge of finding its way into physical education programs across the country. That is, if Stephen Ihli, creator and director of the award-winning feature film "JumpRopeSprint" has anything to do with it. Ihli and his associates, Mark Krull and Eric Small - executive producer and producer of "JumpRopeSprint" - are committed to creating widespread interest in this thrilling new form of competition. Their goal is to make JumpRopeSprint racing "the newest and most exciting event in track and field." They envision the sport being incorporated into school programs, featured in exhibition races during halftime at NFL games, and eventually working its way up to the Olympics. Current world champion hurdler, Lashinda Demus - women's 100-meter JumpRopeSprint record-holder - is on board with the program. P.E. teachers will benefit by the thoughts and tips Stephen shared with me regarding JumpRopeRun programs for schools.

Technique

Children often gallop on playgrounds with jump ropes, but they take two steps for each twirl of the rope. JumpRopeRunning requires one step with each twirl of the rope. Completely rotating the rope with each step requires increasingly steady focus and timing. Children should start out slowly - correct technique is paramount. They should practice in place and develop a rhythm before they attempt to move forward. Elbows remain close to the body, arms are still and movement is in the wrists. Jumps are very low to the ground. Visit JumpRopeRun.com for a training guide on basic bounces and routines.

Benefits of the Sport

Introducing a new sport to children is challenging, but when the sport is JumpRopeSprint racing, the fun and healthy benefits make the endeavor well worth it, according to Ihli. The intense cardiovascular activity of this new sport can only help the alarming child obesity problem. Once students have acquired some proficiency, JumpRopeSprint competitions can be organized at the school. This activity helps students reach their full potential, on and off the track. The JumpRopeRun site provides competition format and basic rules.

Current Place in Schools

Physical education programs typically incorporate activities designed to increase endurance and aerobic capacity; therefore, the JumpRopeRun program is a perfect fit. For the past year, students and athletes at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, California - where Ihli serves as a volunteer assistant track coach - have sprinted various distances with jump ropes, incorporating these activities into otherwise conventional track and field exercises. A similar program has taken root in Santa Clarita High School P.E. classes, and JumpRopeRun will soon be launched in schools - from elementary to college level - around the country and the world.

Age Appropriateness

Stephen's experience is that, given proper coaching and encouragement, relatively coordinated children - as young as 6 years old - can learn to proficiently run with a jump rope, twirling the rope with each step. If students are 7- or 8-years of age, they pick up the technique quickly, especially when motivated in a group situation. Children younger than 13 should not run distances longer than 100 yards, warns Ihli. Generally, due to the strenuous nature of total body exertion, elementary school students should only work up to 50-60 meter dashes. Junior high and high school students can work up to 100-150 meters and college athletes can train for the 200 and 400 meter races.

Advice for Teachers

Above all, Ihli advises P.E. teachers to demonstrate good technique. Develop moderate proficiency with the jump rope. A class of reluctant pupils becomes eager to learn once they see a teacher doing something they can't. Ihli separates his classes into those who can't keep up with him, those who are equally fast, and those who can beat him. Many are faster, but trip up before the finish line in the heat of excitement during a race. Most kids want to go fast right off the bat, which doesn't help with timing - it reinforces bad habits. Incorporate warmup drills, cardio drills and agility drills.

One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching individuals in the techniques of JumpRopeSprint racing is watching how quickly they improve, notes Ihli. The learning curve can be impressive in a relatively short amount of time. This produces self-confidence and releases healthy bio-chemicals in the brain. A small amount of consistent practice is all it takes. Many students readily master the skill right away.

Source: Interview; Stephen Ihli, November, 2011.

JumpRopeRun.com

image credit: Stephen Ihli; student athletes at Santa Clarita College; reprinted with permission