Jump Rope vs Step Machine
Which one fits your Cardio workout plan?
Contents
Jump Rope burns more per minute than Step Machine — MET 9 vs 7. Compare intensity, joint impact, and form for both Cardio options.
Compare the benefits of Jump Rope and Step Machine and pick the one that fits your Cardio workout.
Jump Rope vs Step Machine: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Step Machine more often — 642 sessions compared to 285 for Jump Rope.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Jump Rope and Step Machine differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Jump Rope and Step Machine Differ
| What differs | Jump Rope | Step Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | quads, hamstrings, and calves | quads, hamstrings, and glutes |
| Equipment | bodyweight only | a machine |
| Difficulty | 2 of 5 | 1 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 285 sessions | 642 sessions |
How to Do Jump Rope
Jump Rope Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Turn the rope backward and start with your feet together.
- 2. Keep your arms at your sides and turn the rope only with your wrists.
- 3. Bend your knees slightly when jumping to reduce the impact upon landing.
Coach's Tips
- Land softly to avoid putting strain on your ankles while running.
For a full Jump Rope guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Jump Rope exercise guide.
How to Do Step Machine
Step Machine Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Place your foot on the pedal and hold the handlebar while standing.
- 2. Press down on the pedal with one foot at a time to take steps.
- 3. Move in a steady rhythm and do not bend your knees too much.
Coach's Tips
- Be careful not to let your knees go past your toes, and lift your feet completely.
For a full Step Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Step Machine exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Cardio, Jump Rope or Step Machine?
Planfit users log Step Machine more often — 642 sessions against 285 for Jump Rope. Both train Cardio, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Jump Rope and Step Machine work the same muscles?
Not quite. Jump Rope loads quads, hamstrings, and calves, and Step Machine loads quads, hamstrings, and glutes.
What equipment do Jump Rope and Step Machine need?
Jump Rope needs bodyweight only, and Step Machine needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
Step Machine is the easier place to start. Move to Jump Rope once your form holds up.
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