Rope flow is setting the fitness world on fire. But what, exactly, is it? If you looked up videos, you may be scratching your head and wondering what the big deal is. Before you start thinking that rope flow is nothing more than skipping rope with extra steps, read this article as a primer.
What Is Rope Flow?
Rope flow is a new form of exercise that involves using a heavy rope like the one in this Octomoves review. Along with jumping with the rope, you can twirl, roll, dance, and do a bunch of other maneuvers. The exercises are designed such that the body moves in a natural, holistic, primal fashion. It is comparable to parkour and tai chi.
If you think of rope flow as “jumping rope with dancing,” you will have a good idea of what rope flow is like and how fun it can be! The main difference is that the rope is much heavier than a jump rope and can do more things. This will be discussed in more detail when we cover what you need to do these exercises.
Why Is Rope Flow Good for You?
Rope flow has many benefits. To start with, it burns calories—always a good thing! Here are more perks of rope flow that you might not get from other exercises:
Left- and Right-Brain Synchronization
Strengthening the connection between the left and right halves of your brain is the best reason to try rope flow versus any other kind of exercise. To master rope flow, the left and right halves of your brain must work together. If you have problems with this, rope flow is an excellent way to realign yourself. Few forms of exercise can do this in the same way that rope flow does!
Strengthens Your Joints
If you suffer from joint pain, doing rope flow with a lighter rope may be a good way to get them back into shape. It may even improve your posture! (But if you have severe joint pain, please ask your doctor before trying rope flow.)
Carries Over to Other Exercises
Rope flow can also blend into the rest of your workout routine. The muscle groups and movements involved in rope flow can align your body and mind in preparation for more exercises. Rope flow might make you a better tennis player, for example.
Stress Relief
Some people use rope flow to de-stress after a long day of work. It can be a warmup but can also be a cooldown.
Fun!
Because of its versatility, variety, and ease of access, rope flow is one of the more enjoyable kinds of exercise. Some practitioners even describe it as “addicting.” Aside from runner’s high, when was the last time you heard that about an exercise routine?
What Do I Need for Rope Flow?
The only thing you need for rope flow is, you guessed it, the rope. These ropes are heavier and thicker than jump ropes. But there are a lot of ropes to choose from; how can you pick the right one for you?
There are two things to consider when buying an exercise rope: size and weight. Many ropes are “one size fits all.” If you want to be precise, measure yourself from your feet to your chest; select a rope roughly twice that long. When in doubt, err on the side of a long rope. You can always tie symmetrical knots to adjust the length later.
The rope’s weight will affect its maneuverability, but heavier is better if your goal is burning calories. Think about your reasons for trying rope flow before buying your first rope. Some sites even do custom jobs!
You will also need space to exercise. Any wide, open space will do. Even if you live in a city apartment, you can do this exercise routine.
Any Other Tips?
The best tip for your rope flow workout is also the easiest: have fun! Even though you should be curious about other exercises, if you don’t enjoy them, listen to your heart and body.
The second-best tip is to remember that rope flow is just that: a flow. Don’t feel too constrained by your workout plans. If you feel like you need to jump more, or do more tricks, do that. Your body is telling you what it wants, so go with the flow!
When learning a new trick with your rope, pay attention to what the instructor says about the handles, apex, and wrist movements of the exercise in question.
Finally, practice, practice, practice. You might not remember how to jump rope from your childhood; give it a bit and it’ll come back. Likewise, any new moves with your rope are new skills that will take time to get used to. Be patient with yourself.
Conclusion
Rope flow is an innovative form of exercise that can tackle many fitness problems at once. It’s fun, versatile, and can be done anywhere. All you need is a rope and space. Have fun while getting fit!