We are pumped to share one of our fave stories from Self here on FitSugar! Back in the day, when we played double-dutch on the playground (or some simpler incarnation of that), we hardly cared about the value of the workout.  All we cared about was having fun. It turns out that jumping offers a lot more than a good time: in fact, depending on the type of jumping exercise you choose, you can Read more

We rely on our eyes so much when we exercise that if you take your sight away briefly, it forces your body to tap into its senses of hearing and touch, which can help you become more aware of your body and how it's moving. Doing certain exercises with your eyes closed is also more difficult when it comes to balance, not to mention a little scary, so it can bring new life to boring exercises Read more

Who didn't love recess back in the day? Shoot, I still love recess! A kid at heart, I still enjoy some of the pastimes from the blacktop era that used to get my heart pumping. With school back in full swing, I'm ready to get into my old physical education mode and fire up some elementary workouts from the schoolyard. Hoola hoop: Get the hips working and the quads engaged with a little hoola Read more

Jumping rope burns about 200 calories in 20 minutes, but throw in an extra jump rope, some push-ups, squats, somersaults, cartwheels, and fancy dance moves, and not only does that number go up, but so does the fun. Check out this inspirational video of an activity that isn't just for kids. Tell me, have you ever tried double dutch? Read more

Join the ranks of Katy Perry and get your heart rate up with a little jump rope. Common in elementary schools and boxing gyms, jumping rope is a great cardio workout that also challenges your coordination, balance, and agility. Also a great calorie burner — you're moving your own body weight against gravity — jumping rope tones your calves, thighs, back, abs, shoulders, arms, and bum. It'll Read more

The secret to Michelle Obama's slim waist? Hula-hooping! The first lady hosted a Healthy Kids Fair on the White House South Lawn this week to promote her ongoing message that Americans need to get healthy. Among the attendees were chefs and nutritionists who prepared lunch while also passing along the valuable lesson of healthy eating. Afterward, the kids and Michelle completed an obstacle Read more

Katy Perry looks amazing in her various bikinis. What's her secret? According to a recent interview with Cosmo, her favorite way to exercise is jumping rope. Not only does it burn calories — 295 per 30 minutes — but jumping rope also helps build bone-mineral density and makes your body stronger. It's a simple and inexpensive way to get your heart rate up; use it as your main form of cardio Read more