While I, as a child have always tried to skip rope with other kids in several different ways, it was decades later I learned that this simple physical activity had actually become a professional discipline with its own sporting events worldwide. One organization in particular, the British Rope Skipping Association became widely known among jump enthusiasts for its mission and rapidly growing numbers.
What the Organization is All About
It all began in 1996 – the BRSA’s mission was simple, yet powerful; to bring fitness awareness to British youth, pushing the limits of conventional rope skipping beyond its commonly defined borders, and run the most successful championship in 2010; but that wasn’t all. British skippers had set their sights on championship events that would not only bring sports glory to their individual skippers, but to the organization as a whole. And so, the BRSA had started its steady climb to rope skipping fame.
The Importance of Competition Techniques
Just as you would expect to see from other sports, rope skipping also has very specific moves that need to be performed in order for the judges to place a grading. Speed, technique, execution – these are all factors by sports officials will determine the grading points for any participating rope skipping team. All skipping techniques are usually determined by the country where the tournament is held, as well as the judging system.
Types of Techniques
Basic jump (also known as an easy jump) is the technique where the skipper lifts both feet slightly above the ground. It is the first jump skipping technique ever conceived. The second form which is very often used in competitions as a part of a speed discipline is the “alternate step” where the skipper jumps one foot at a time. Other techniques include criss-cross, side swing, double-under, leg over, elephant, frog, and many others.
There are So many Rope Skipping Events
The art of rope skipping is outstandingly saturated with variety; in terms of both events and disciplines. Among the most known events out there, is the World Rope Skipping Championship (also known as the FISAC world championship). Other professional skipping events are usually devised by continents; there are European, Asian, and US championships which are usually held in their native countries as means to determine a qualifying team for the world events.
Achievements in the Field
While an appreciation from an official championship can bring skippers a lot of pride, it is the Guinness World Records that set the tone for everyone else to follow. In 2011, UK’s own Beci Dale broke the speed record for 332 jumps in 1 minute! But while speed is indeed important, other techniques can involve difficult acrobatic maneuvers such as handstands, somersaults, side flips and other physically challenging feats; all of which can have their appropriate awards.
Activity Today
In modern days, the BRSA is connected to the currently most popular rope skipping association in Britain – the Jump Rope UK. Their members participate in the National Jump Rope Championships, which they have won quite a number of times. Although this is indeed a competitive sport, the environment here is considered to be much friendlier and fun according to spectators, participants, and championship officials.
What to Expect from the BRSA in the Future?
Fun, comradery, and a whole lot of achievements. The BRSA seem to be a very tightly knit organization; not only among themselves, but also with the other associations they are allied with. The race for the best rope team on a world level is always a goal worthy to strive for, but the bar is always raised with every completed competition. One thing is for sure – the ancient sport of jump rope is becoming bigger by the minute!