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Doesn't it just take you back to the playground days? I can remember how much I used to love to jump rope. And now today as an adult I realize that it has more than a few health benefits. According to an article in Natural Awakenings, the American Heart Association contends that jumping rope is an excellent exercise for your cardio health. Researchers are even learning that it may prepare the brain for learning to raise the heart rate, which pumps blood to the brain, feeding it nutrients and heightening your mental focus.
In order to improve heart and lung function jumping rope, it must be performed three to five times per week for 12 to 20 minutes. But we're not talking double Dutch here, it must be done at 130 revolutions per minute which is equivalent to running about 6 miles per hour or biking 12 miles per hour. Best part—it's cheap. The only thing that you really need to purchase is a $10 jump rope. You can do it cheaper by using some rope you already have and cutting it to desired length (you'll probably want to duct tape the ends for comfort). Either way, you're using very few of the earth's resources and it's a one-time thing—the jump rope will last ages and requires only your own energy to operate. Also, don't jump on a hard surface like concrete. Jump on cork or wood to avoid injury from constant impact and get a good pair of shoes just as you would for running.
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Are you a green hipster looking for all things green and cool? Then you'll love actor and eco-activist Adrian Grenier and his team of environmental experts, who live it up with sustainable style on Planet Green TV's Alter Eco.
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