Running vs Jump Rope
Which one fits your Cardio workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Running more often — 2,587 sessions vs 285. Compare Cardio form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Running and Jump Rope and pick the one that fits your Cardio workout.
Running vs Jump Rope: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Running more often — 2,587 sessions compared to 285 for Jump Rope.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Running and Jump Rope differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Running and Jump Rope Differ
| What differs | Running | Jump Rope |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | quads, hamstrings, abs, and calves | quads, hamstrings, and calves |
| Difficulty | 2 of 5 | 2 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 2,587 sessions | 285 sessions |
How to Do Running
Running Muscles Worked: Cardio
Form
- 1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and get ready naturally.
- 2. Take a step forward and start running smoothly while swinging your arms.
- 3. At the end of the exercise, gradually slow down and switch to walking.
Coach's Tips
- Land softly on your feet and be careful not to lean too far forward.
For a full Running guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Running exercise guide.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Cardio, Running or Jump Rope?
Planfit users log Running more often — 2,587 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 Running and Jump Rope work the same muscles?
Not quite. Running loads quads, hamstrings, abs, and calves, and Jump Rope loads quads, hamstrings, and calves.
What equipment do Running and Jump Rope need?
Running needs bodyweight only, and Jump Rope needs bodyweight only.
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