Strength and gym

Battle ropes

Short bursts of rope waves for arms, core and lungs.

  • Very hardintensity
  • ~560kcal per hour
  • Low costbudget
  • Lowimpact
Battle ropes illustration

Is battle ropes right for you?

Short bursts of rope waves for arms, core and lungs. It is a very hard-intensity, low impact activity that you can do indoors or outdoors, on your own. Expect to burn around 560 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.

Anyone can start. Expect to spend up to about £20 a month.

Why try battle ropes

  • Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
  • Burns calories. At around 560 kcal an hour it can help with weight loss alongside a balanced diet.
  • Builds strength. It works your muscles hard enough to make you stronger over time.
  • Kind to joints. Low impact makes it a good choice if running or jumping is uncomfortable.

How to start battle ropes

  1. Do 20 seconds of waves and 40 seconds of rest, 8 times.

  2. Get the basics: battle ropes. Borrow or hire before you buy.

  3. Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.

  4. Warm up for five minutes first, build up gradually and stop if anything hurts.

A 4-week starter plan

WeekSessionsMinutes eachFocus
1215Learn the basics and keep every session easy.
2220Repeat last week and add a little time.
3325Add a session or make one a bit harder.
4330Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next.

This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.

Similar activities

Not sure battle ropes is for you?

Take the two-minute quiz and we will match you with activities that fit your goals, mood, budget and fitness.

Open the activity matcher