Arm Action Skills

Arm Action Skills can be named systematically because there are only so many ways that you can position the arms while still jumping through the rope. The 9 positions are shown below. Note that in many cases, each arm can be in a different position. Skills where the arms are in the "Open" position (at their respective sides) are not considered an Arm Action skill since that is the default arm position for rope jumping.
These skills can be systematically named according to how the arms are positioned. For example, the Front-back Cross illustrated on the former page has one arm crossing in front and one at the back. For more information on these challenging skills and how to name them, check out USAJRF's "Know Your Skills Video and Manual." The following is just an introduction to pique your interest.

	This diagram illustrates the neutral or "Open" arm position for rope jumping. As you might guess, it is the most commonly used position for rope jumping.
	The "Arm Tuck" position is used for just a few skills. You can tuck one arm or both and jump through the rope. Sport jumpers often call this skill the "chicken" or "funky chicken."
	The "Leg Tuck" position is also possible and incorporated in a few skills. I've not seen a "Two-leg Tuck" but it is technically possible if you are flexible enough!
	*Note that the diagrams are only showing the position with one arm. To execute a Cross Skill, both arms must be crossed in some way to get through the rope.* Cross skills, where the arms cross over to the opposite side of the body in some way, is a richer way of repositioning the arms. This diagram shows the left arm in the "Front Cross" position. The Front Cross is a very popular skill that everyone wants to learn. I will illustrate a step-by-step method of learning on another page in the future.
	This the "Back Cross" position. As you might guess, jumping with one or two arms behind your back requires flexible shoulders. A rope with long handles helps too.
	The "Inside Leg Cross" position at first glance might look like a "leg tuck." Note, however, that the arm crosses over to the other side of the body. The arm goes under the inside of the opposite leg, and hence it's name.
	With the "Outside Leg Cross" one arm crosses under the outside of the leg.
	With the "Two-leg Cross" the arm(s) cross under both legs. This is beginning to get challenging!
	It helps to have a longer rope to execute an "Overhead Cross" skill variation.