Why You Should Start Skipping, According To The Huberman Lab Podcast

Skipping is often seen as a childhood pastime, but recent research suggests that it offers numerous benefits for individuals of all ages. In a recent episode of The Huberman Lab Podcast, sprint coach Stuart McMillan discussed the importance of skipping as a foundational movement for health and performance. This simple yet effective exercise can help improve mobility, speed, and even longevity.

Plyometrics, which involve explosive movements like jumping and bounding, are essential for building speed, coordination, and power. Skipping is considered one of the most effective forms of plyometric training, yet it is often overlooked. Unlike sprinting, which can be hard on the joints, skipping provides similar benefits while minimizing the risk of injury.

Participation in activities that maintain muscle mass, such as sprinting, has been linked to improved longevity. Research shows that long-term engagement in vigorous exercise can lower mortality rates, particularly in terms of cardiovascular health. As we age, our strength, mobility, and reaction time naturally decline. Incorporating explosive movements like skipping and sprinting into our fitness routines can help preserve fast-twitch muscle fibers, which are crucial for power and agility.

To maximize the benefits of skipping, it’s important to incorporate different variations of the exercise. High-knee skipping, power skipping, backward skipping, and lateral skipping can all help improve strength, coordination, and agility. A short 10-minute skipping session can provide significant benefits for speed, strength, and injury prevention.

For those looking to progress from skipping to sprinting, a gradual approach is recommended. Starting with skipping can help build foundational movement patterns before transitioning to striding and eventually sprinting. Proper technique and recovery are essential when introducing sprinting into a workout routine to prevent injuries.

Contrary to common misconceptions, sprinting is not just for elite athletes. Everyone can benefit from some form of sprint training, even if it’s not at maximum speed. By reintroducing explosive movement patterns through skipping and gradually incorporating sprint drills, individuals can improve their ability to move quickly and powerfully.

In conclusion, simple movements like skipping and sprinting can have a profound impact on overall health and mobility. By including skipping in your fitness routine, you can enhance speed, power, coordination, and even sleep quality. Whether you’re an athlete looking to gain an edge or simply aiming to maintain mobility as you age, skipping is a valuable and accessible exercise that can benefit individuals of all ages. So next time you’re looking for a quick and effective way to boost your athleticism, consider adding skipping to your workout routine—it’s not just for kids, but for everyone looking to move better for life.