A length of cord swung under the feet and jumped over for cardio exercise is called a jump rope.
The same equipment is commonly called a skipping rope, especially in British English and many other varieties of English. The basic movement involves turning the rope over the head and under the feet while jumping rhythmically. It can be used alone, in groups, for play, or as structured athletic training.
Jump-rope exercise raises the heart rate and challenges timing, balance, coordination, and lower-body endurance. A speed rope is usually a thin vinyl cord or wire, while heavier ropes can make the turning movement more demanding. Beginners often start with small two-foot jumps and gradually learn alternate-foot steps, crossovers, and double-unders.
Rope-skipping has a long history across cultures. Accounts and depictions connect related activities with ancient China and Egypt, while organised competitive forms later developed in speed and freestyle disciplines. A jump rope is not a resistance band: the rope is swung and cleared, whereas a resistance band is stretched to provide opposing force.