The Cheapest Piece of Cardio Equipment You'll Ever Need

I still don't know why people think they need to spend big bucks on cardio equipment. The best exercise machine you'll ever need is your own body. But for some that's not enough. We crave gear. One piece of equipment that you should have, must have, is a jump rope. That's right, the humble jump rope.

Unlike a treadmill or exercise bike a jump rope costs hundreds of dollars less. It takes up virtually no room, and it is extremely portable. If, like me, you once had to travel for work, taking along a jump rope was an easy accessory to slip into a suitcase. So it costs less, it is portable, it literally takes up no room, it is light weight, and it is a more effective cardio tool than a treadmill or bike. Heck, skipping rope is even more effective than running, and you don't have to rely on the weather to get your workout done. But if it is nice outside, taking your rope with you is no problem.

Now the bad news. Hey, I'll give it to you straight. Jumping rope takes some skill. It takes a level of coordination that a treadmill or bike don't require. But, isn't part of athleticism being able to do stuff? Skipping rope will not just improve your cardio-vascular health, it is a great tool for improving foot work for a number of sports. I mean, who hasn't watched a boxer work a rope? I'm surprised more athletes haven't gravitated toward the jump rope.

Skipping rope has the benefit of growing with you. You'll never outgrow a jump rope. Since you regulate the intensity of the work out, as your fitness level increases so can the challenge of skipping rope. Jillian Michaels suggests for cardio to be most beneficial you must train hard. And believe me, a jump rope will help you do that.