Jumping rope. Some of us haven't done it since schoolyard days.

But here are the top 10 reasons you should jump rope like you did in third grade -- besides the fact that it will make you feel like a kid again!

Top 10 Reasons to Jump Rope

Do it to warm up. Do it to cool down. Or make a whole workout of it. Just do it. Martin Winkler, author of RopeSport: The Ultimate Jump Rope Workout, offers these 10 reasons to get hopping.

Jumping rope . . .

1.	Burns up to 1,000 calories per hour. (Find out how many calories your other physical activities burn.)
2.	Tones your entire body -- arms, legs, trunk, and back.
3.	Is easy to learn (master’s degree in Pilates not required).
4.	Improves your game, whether you golf, swim, ski, or play tennis.
5.	Is totally cheap (ropes can start at $3.99) and portable (a 4-foot by 6-foot area is all you need).
6.	Looks cool . . . check out those boxers at the gym who know what they’re doing.
7.	Can be a solo or group workout.
8.	Is gender neutral.
9.	Is family friendly. Give your kids a rope, too!
10.	Can be a blast. Make up some jump rope tricks, and have fun with it.

Get Moving
Test your fitness level. Set goals for the future. Find helpful tools for both in the RealAge Workout Center.

RealAge Benefit: Exercising regularly can make your RealAge as much as 9 years younger.

Try It: The high-density beads on the Harbinger Beaded Jump Rope provide uniform weight distribution, consistent swing motion, and greater durability -- and the 9-foot length is easy to adjust.

Take the RealAge Test