Battle Rope? What's so special about a rope?

So... a poly rope can get me fit?

Heck yes!

In the photo above, the young lady is holding what's called a poly rope which is also known as a battle rope. Remember that rope that our teacher use to make us climb in Gym Class or the one you saw on your great uncle's fishing boat? Yup, that's the same thing!

Material Type:

There are different material types to choose from. The best one that you can get is made from a blend of polypropylene and polyester (Poly) which is going to be your strongest rope. The Poly rope is perfect for both indoor and outdoor training. That explains why this rope is what has been used for years in schools, gyms and even on boats or ships (much thicker of course). There's also the rope material called Manila (second best). These are perfect for outdoor training, but not suitable for indoor use due to it being treated with petroleum for shipping purposes (just like fuel... it has a very strong scent to it.). The Nylon material is probably the third best quality, but it's best served as an indoor training tool only a smooth surface.

Thickness:

Battle Ropes generally come in two thicknesses. You can choose between the 1.5" or the 2" rope. The thickness that you get will depend on the fitness goals that you may have. If you have small hands, I would highly recommend that you don't purchase a 2" rope. The 2" rope is definitely great, if you want to increase your grip strength, but the thickness difference plays a big role in the type of results you're seeking. The 1.5" rope weighs an average of 34 pounds at the heaviest and the 2" rope would weigh an average of 42 pounds at its heaviest weight.

Length:

Battle Ropes can be ordered at custom sizes, but they're commonly found in the lengths of 30FT., 40FT. and 50FT. The length is very important when considering which rope to purchase especially if you're limited on the amount of space that you have to work with. Keep in mind that the rope will basically be cut in half at the point which will also be anchored to something.

30FT: Beginners will be okay with this size. Being that it'll be folded in half, you'll have about 15FT of rope in each hand. In each hand you'll only have enough to not create a lot of momentum which will ultimately feel lighter in weight (It is lighter than the other two.). The 30 foot rope is perfect for someone recovering from an injury at one point in their life, and they're gaining strength back from a broken muscle, broken bone, torn ligaments, etc from the torso and above. There is one downside though. It won't take long for the trainee to feel as if the work out is becoming too easy.

40FT: Someone who trains closer to Intermediate will most likely use this rope size. It will be slightly heavier than the 30FT of course, but just like the 30FT rope... you will grow out of it as well.

50FT: I recommend this size to everyone, because you can use what is called an anchor to create an anchor point and shorten the rope if needed. The 50 footer will give you lots of room to gain momentum, but keep in mind that you'll need 25 feet to effectively do your training.

Now What?

If you're going to get yourself a rope, buy a Poly 50' rope. You won't go wrong with it! If you need something tougher for a work out, consider getting a 2" rope as a 50 footer!

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