Objective of the Game
The objective of Chinese Jump Rope (also known as Elastics or French Skipping) is to successfully complete a series of jumps in various combinations without making any mistakes. It is a skill and movement game that can be played solo or in a group.
Setup
- Materials: A long, elastic band (about 3 to 5 meters) tied into a loop.
- Number of Players: At least three players. Two hold the rubber band, and one jumps. With more players, you can rotate.
How to Play
- Setup: Two players stand about a meter apart, holding the rubber band at ankle height, stepping inside to form a rectangle.
- Starting Position: The active player stands about half a meter in front of the rubber band.
- Jump Patterns: The active player jumps into the rubber band and performs predetermined jump patterns. Common patterns include:
- "Entering": Inside - Outside - Inside – Outside
- "Twist": Jump from outside in, crossing feet
- "Diamond" or "Cross": Using both feet to spread the rubber band in the middle
Depending on the region or group, there are countless variations of jump patterns.
- Mistakes: If a player makes a mistake (e.g., touching the band incorrectly or failing a jump), the next player takes their turn.
- Increasing Difficulty: After a successful round, the rubber band is held higher, like at knee or waist level.
- Rotation: After a set number of rounds or jumps, players change roles (the two holding the band and the jumper).
Special Strategies
- Observation: Watch other players to identify potential problem areas.
- Practice timing and precision to jump quickly and flawlessly, especially at higher band positions.
Chinese Jump Rope is a simple yet challenging game that promotes skill and endurance. It's typically played outdoors on a flat surface, providing fun as well as physical exercise.
