If you’re looking for a fun, active game that needs just a simple piece of elastic, you need to learn how to do the chinese jump rope. This classic playground activity is great for kids and adults, combining rhythm, coordination, and a bit of friendly competition. It’s easy to learn the basics but offers endless challenges as you get better.
How to Do the Chinese Jump Rope
Before you start jumping, you’ll need the right equipment and setup. The game is traditionally played with three people, but you can adapt it for two if you have a post or chair to help.
What You Need to Get Started
You don’t need much to play. Here’s the basic list:
- A Chinese jump rope. This is a long, circular band of elastic, often about 15-20 feet long when streched. You can buy one or make your own by tying a loop of rubber bands together.
- At least two players to hold the rope. A third player is the jumper.
- A flat, safe surface to play on, like grass or a soft playground.
Setting Up the Rope Correctly
Proper setup is key. The two holders stand facing each other, about 10 feet apart. They each step into the rope loop so it’s around their ankles, pulling it taut to form a rectangle around their legs. The rope should be parallel to the ground without any major sagging. The jumper stands to the side, ready to begin.
Understanding the Basic Positions
The rope has three main positions during play. Each one makes the game progressively harder.
- Ankles: The rope is around the holders’ ankles. This is the starting and easiest level.
- Calves: After a successful round, the holders move the rope up to mid-calf height.
- Knees: The final standard level, with the rope at the holders’ knees. Some players go even higher to thighs!
Learning the Foundational Moves
All patterns are built from a few core moves. Master these first before trying a full sequence.
The Basic Jump (On and In)
This is the first move you should practice. Stand beside the rope, just outside it. Jump so both feet land inside the two parallel ropes. That’s “in.” Then, jump again to land with both feet outside the ropes, straddling one side. That’s “out.” Get comfortable with this in-and-out rhythm.
The Side-to-Side Swing
Start with you’re feet outside one rope. Jump and swing both feet to the opposite side, so you land outside the other rope. You never land in the center. It’s a smooth, side-to-side motion, like a pendulum.
Common Mistake: Crossing the Ropes
Avoid letting your feet get tangled. In the side swing, your feet should stay together and clear the rope cleanly. Practice without holders first to get the motion down.
The Scissors Move
Start with one foot inside the ropes and one foot outside. Then, jump and switch your foot positions in mid-air. Your right foot goes where your left was, and vice versa. It’s like making a scissor shape with your legs.
Putting It Together: Your First Pattern
Patterns are called “sequences” and are often chanted with rhymes. Let’s learn a classic beginner pattern: “In, Out, Side, Side, On, In, Out.”
- Start standing beside the rope.
- In: Jump so both feet land inside the ropes.
- Out: Jump so both feet land outside, straddling the closest rope.
- Side: Perform the side swing to the opposite side.
- Side: Do another side swing to returne to your original side.
- On: This means to jump and land with one foot on the nearest rope, pinning it down. Your other foot is outside.
- In: From the “on” position, jump back to both feet inside the ropes.
- Out: Finish by jumping to a neutral “out” position.
If you complete the sequence without a mistake, the rope moves up to calves. If you miss, you trade places with a holder.
Tips for Keeping Rhythm
The chant helps you keep time. Say it out loud as you jump. Start slow, focusing on accuracy over speed. Once the moves feel automatic, you can try to speed up the pattern.
Leveling Up: More Challenging Sequences
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can try harder patterns. These involve faster footwork and tricky combinations.
The “Americans” Pattern
This is a popular intermediate sequence. The chant often goes: “In, out, in, out, side, side, on, in, out.” Notice the extra “in, out” at the beginning, which increases the pace right away. It really tests your endurance and coordination.
Adding Twists and Turns
Advanced players incorporate 180-degree or 360-degree jumps into the sequences. For example, you might jump “in” and then twist your body to face the other direction before jumping “out.” This requires great control and spatial awareness so you don’t get tangled.
Practicing Advanced Moves Safely
Always practice new, difficult moves with the rope at the lowest (ankles) level. Use a soft surface. It’s also helpful to have the holders keep the rope very taut to prevent unexpected slack that could trip you.
Playing the Game with Friends
The social part is what makes this game so enduring. Here’s how a typical game flows.
Taking Turns and Rotating
The jumper attempts the agreed-upon sequence. If they make it through without error, the rope is raised to the next level (calves, then knees). If they miss, they shout “Miss!” or “Error!” and their turn is over. They then become a holder, and one of the previous holders gets a turn to jump. This rotation keeps everyone involved.
Creating Your Own Patterns
Making up your own sequences is half the fun. Combine the basic moves in a new order and create a silly rhyme to go with it. This encourages creativity and can make the game feel fresh every time you play.
Common Questions Answered
Can you play Chinese jump rope alone?
Yes, you can. Tie the rope around two sturdy chairs or even a porch post and a chair. Adjust the height as needed. This is a perfect way to practice new moves on your own time.
What if I don’t have the official rope?
You can use a long piece of elastic stiching from a craft store, or even a long chain of rubber bands tied together. Just make sure it’s strong enough to not snap during play and is comfortable against the skin.
How do you decide who goes first?
You can do a simple coin toss or play a quick game of rock-paper-scissors. Sometimes, the person who owns the rope or suggested the game gets to jump first. There’s no strict rule, so just pick a fair method.
Are there different names for the moves?
Yes, names can vary by region. What some call “on,” others might call “straddle.” The side swing is sometimes called “swing” or “side.” If your playing with new friends, it’s a good idea to clarify the terms before you start.
What age is this game good for?
Children as young as 5 or 6 can start with the simplest jumps. The game is excellent for developing motor skills. But it’s truly ageless—teens and adults enjoy the challenge and nostalgia just as much. It’s a fun way for the whole family to be active together.
With a little practice, you’ll be jumping through complex patterns and laughing with friends in no time. The beauty of the game is it’s simplicity and the way it grows with you. Grab a rope, find some helpers, and give it a try today.