Hi Cathe & anyone else who can help out,
I was recently laid off from my job and have since gained 6 pounds by sitting at home and looking for jobs on the computer. (A major setback to me, as a year ago I went from a 207 pound 5'2" girl to a 165 much happier girl. I have been struggling to lose more since and my goal is to be in the 130s.) Anyway, right now, I cannot afford to pay for a gym membership or get expensive equipment, though I do have some weights and a stability ball.
So I would like to ask if jumping rope is a decent cardio workout? How many calories can I expect to burn if I did 30 minutes 3 to 4 times a week? I read somewhere (I believe it was iVillage) that jumping rope is easier on your joints verses running. Though, I would love to go on a jog outside, I live in South Texas and it's summertime. Some days, just standing outside feels like I am in a sauna with clothes on.
So, I figure jumping rope might be something to look into as a temp fix until I can join another *air conditioned* gym again. 
Thanks for any advice/suggestions!
Christina
I was recently laid off from my job and have since gained 6 pounds by sitting at home and looking for jobs on the computer. (A major setback to me, as a year ago I went from a 207 pound 5'2" girl to a 165 much happier girl. I have been struggling to lose more since and my goal is to be in the 130s.) Anyway, right now, I cannot afford to pay for a gym membership or get expensive equipment, though I do have some weights and a stability ball.
So I would like to ask if jumping rope is a decent cardio workout? How many calories can I expect to burn if I did 30 minutes 3 to 4 times a week? I read somewhere (I believe it was iVillage) that jumping rope is easier on your joints verses running. Though, I would love to go on a jog outside, I live in South Texas and it's summertime. Some days, just standing outside feels like I am in a sauna with clothes on.
Thanks for any advice/suggestions!
Christina