Jumping rope is one of the most efficient methods of cardio training. Jumping rope for 10 minutes at a moderate pace is the equivalent to running one mile in 12 minutes, cycling 2 miles in six minutes, swimming a quarter mile in 12 minutes, two sets of tennis or playing an 18-hole golf course. Since jumping rope is such an efficient exercise, your cardiovascular system will experience some type of stress, especially in sedentary people. We highly recommend that sedentary people or people over 35 see a physician before beginning any exercise programs.