In the scientific publication Journal of Bone and Mineral Metabolism, experts from the University of Barcelona and the High Performance Sports Center in Spain reported that an experiment revealed new benefits of jumping rope.
The study involved 16 girls aged from 17 to 21 years, professionally engaged in swimming. Swimming is known to be a beneficial sport, but it does not strengthen bones. The participants of the experiment jumped on a rope for 20 minutes twice a week for 22 weeks. Experts determined the quality and density of the girls' bones using X-ray absorptiometry.
As a result, the experts found that the bones of the lower spine, femoral neck and legs had strengthened significantly. Bone mass increased and fat mass, on the contrary, decreased.
Scientists concluded that moderate exercise, such as jumping rope, helps bones to realign and gradually strengthen, which reduces the risk of fractures.