Do you remember the salsa commercial that had cowboys saying, ‘get a rope,’ after they learned their cook served them salsa from New York City? Well, salsa aside, jumping rope can be a fun, effective alternative to running long distances.

Even jumping at a very moderate rate burns 10 to 16 calories a minute. Work your jump rope exercise into three 10-minute rounds and you're looking at 480 calories in half an hour. According to Science Daily, 10 minutes of skipping rope is about equivalent to running an 8-minute-mile.

It can also help increase bone density and because it involves rhythm and coordination, it is great for your brain as well. On top of all of that, it’s affordable! Go ahead, get a rope.

• Tags:
• Fitness