• Skipping is an excellent training tool for boxers.Jumprope image by Jacob Randell from Fotolia.com
  
  Skipping, sometimes referred to as jumping rope, is a common cardiovascular component of training programs for boxers. In addition to building cardiovascular stamina, jumping rope also improves quickness, agility, hand-eye coordination and core muscle strength. Many professional boxers also use skipping as a warm-up activity before getting into the ring for a fight.
  
  

Three-Minute Intervals

• Boxers use jumping rope to mimic their time in the ring to help build stamina for future fights. To mimic fight periods, boxers jump rope for three consecutive minutes, followed by a short break, and then repeat five to seven times. However, if you are new to boxing or jump rope training, start out at a lesser time, such as 30-second intervals, and work your way up to three minutes over time.
  
  

Alternating Feet

• Many boxers will jump using only one foot, alternating which foot is on the ground, in varied intervals, while jumping rope. This is a slightly advanced method from normal skipping. Alternating feet helps build muscle in the legs while also improving footwork, agility and coordination. Try skipping on your right foot for 10 seconds, then switch to the left, repeating as necessary.
  
  

Double-Unders

• Double-unders are an advanced skipping technique. During a double-under, you turn the rope twice underneath your feet during each prolonged jump. Double-unders help improve coordination and enhance leg strength. In a double-under, you will lift your feet much higher off the ground. Once you can skip rope regularly for three minutes without breaks, start adding double-under intervals into your routine.