Are you struggling with double-unders? You’re not alone! They’re one of the most frustrating skills in CrossFit—but also one of the most rewarding once you nail them.
The good news? With a few key adjustments, you can stop tripping on your rope and start stringing together smooth, effortless reps. Here are 5 essential tips to master double-unders:
Keep Your Hands Low and In Front
One of the biggest mistakes? Letting your hands drift out or up. Keep them close to your hips and slightly in front of your body. This ensures the rope stays at the right height and speed.
Use Your Wrists, Not Your Arms
Your wrists should do all the work—NOT your shoulders or elbows. If your arms are moving too much, the rope slows down, making it harder to maintain rhythm.
Jump Efficiently (Not Too High!)
You don’t need to jump like you’re trying to touch the ceiling! Keep your jumps small and controlled, with a slight rebound. Imagine bouncing on a trampoline—soft knees, light on your feet.
Find Your Rhythm with Single-Unders
Before going for doubles, get comfortable with fast single-unders. Try a 1:2 ratio—one single-under, then a double-under. This helps you develop the right timing.
Relax and Breathe
Tension leads to tripping. Stay relaxed, breathe steadily, and don’t overthink it. The more fluid your movement, the easier double-unders become!
Bonus Tip: Use a properly sized jump rope—when you stand on it, the handles should reach your armpits.
With practice, patience, and these tips, you’ll be stringing together double-unders in no time!