The Back Pocket Gym: "Rope-A-Dope"

Years ago, Mohammed Ali (then know as Cassius Clay) - the World Heavyweight Boxing Champion, was asked about the effectiveness with which he dispatched his opponents. The term "rope-a-dope" was mentioned as a strategy he used, and in that regard, he subsequently expounded on one of his pet theories for maintaining a high level of physical fitness.

The truth, he revealed to a reporter, is that much of his success was due to simply skipping rope each day. Now, think about it! We see little kids skipping rope in kindergarten, often murmuring some non-descript nursery rhyme in between jumps.

So it is that we are simply over-equipp-ed and over-amped with every modern-day health spa invention in our quest to lose weight and/or stay fit. And its costing us plenty! So let's get back to basics with the new (old?) "rope-a-dope" plan: the gym you can take with you in your back pocket!

Select a length of standard jump-rope, about 7'-10' long (no need for handles).

The key to jumping rope is "imagination". Use whatever works, just don't allow yourself to get burnt-out (usually good music helps, just keep movin').

Keep a rhythm. Keep a steady pace - not too fast. Ideally, you should try to jump for at least 12 minutes to get aerobic benefit. But start out slow(!) and build up over time. (No macho man jock trips!)

Cardio-vascular fitness is a must. Without it, you'll never make it past the whitewater. Twelve minutes of "rope-a-dope", if done right is the equivalent of an hour or two of standard surfing.