Up until about an hour ago, I felt good about my jump-roping ability [1]. Then I found Bernadette Henry [2] (@jumpropeisdope [3]) on TikTok and, in the face of a true master, promptly downgraded myself to supernovice beginner level.
Which I'm totally OK with. Henry is a jump-rope instructor who teaches workout classes in New York City and online [4], and the things she does with a jump rope are simply astounding. High knees, crossed feet, kicks, arm crossovers, double unders . . . I'm trying to call out the highlights here, but it's hard because she moves like a blur. A perfectly-in-sync-with-the-music blur. These routines make for gruelling cardio [5] (I'm out of breath just watching) and a major test of your focus and balance, just for starters. I'm still trying to memorize eight-second TikTok dances, and Henry is out here throwing a jump rope into the equation!
Duet with her if you dare, but if you're like me, simply kick back and enjoy the talent. Check out a few of her best TikToks ahead!
