Double Dutch: Rhythm & Teamwork Challenge
- Mary Cox
- May 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 12
Double Dutch skipping is a playground favourite that brings energy, excitement, and a good bit of challenge to skipping sessions or in the playground. With two ropes, two turners, and one brave jumper in the middle, it’s a dynamic activity that teaches rhythm, coordination, and most importantly teamwork.
Whether you're introducing Double Dutch for the first time or levelling up a group of confident skippers, here’s how to make it fun, inclusive, and achievable.
Double Dutch
What is Double Dutch?
Double Dutch uses two long skipping ropes, turned inwards towards each other in opposite directions. A jumper (or two!) then skips inside both ropes. It’s a group effort: success depends on the rhythm of the turners and the timing of the jumper.
At first glance, it can look a bit intimidating - but with a few simple techniques, even beginners can experience the joy of jumping in time with two ropes.
Start with Strong Turners
The turners are the backbone of Double Dutch. Without a steady rhythm, it’s tricky for jumpers to find their moment - no pressure!
Top Tips for Turners:
Use ropes of equal length (our two 4m long rope Double Dutch Set are great!)
Stand about 3 metres apart and turn the ropes inward.
You could use a rubber "spot" to mark the centre point of the rope.
Keep a steady and slow rhythm.
Aim for both ropes to hit the ground at the same time.
Listen for the beat: “1, 2… 1, 2... Click, land…”
Once turners have the rhythm, the rest will follow.
Getting In: “Click, Run In, Jump!”
Timing is everything. Use a clear verbal cue to help beginners understand the pattern:
🗣 “Click, run in, jump!”
The jumper watches the coloured rope nearest to them.
When the rope closest to them is in the air, they run in and jump over the near rope first.
It’s best to practise single bounce jumps outside the rope first, listening to the rhythm.
💡 Remind children: they’re jumping over the rope - not on it!
Build Confidence with “In from Inside”
This trick makes entry much easier, especially for beginners:
Stand the jumper inside the ropes, facing forward in the centre.
Turn the ropes around them, with a large gap in front.
Get them jumping with the rhythm before moving the ropes behind them.
Once ropes are in full swing, they’re skipping without needing to run in!
This builds rhythm awareness and helps children understand the beat of the ropes before attempting the jump-in method.
Double Dutch Games & Challenges
Once children get the hang of the basics, it’s time to mix in some fun!
Relay Race
Teams take turns running in, skipping 5 times, and running out.
Fastest full team wins - or the one with the best rhythm and teamwork.
Trick Challenge
Inside the ropes, try fun moves:
Clap or touch the floor.
Turn in a circle.
Do a criss-cross footwork jump.
Teacher & Coach Tips
Always start with slow, steady rope turning.
Use verbal prompts and consistent rhythms.
Let children practise jumping outside the ropes first.
Be encouraging - success builds quickly with a little confidence boost!
Use older or more experienced students as turner mentors.
Need Double Dutch Ropes?
We stock durable, brightly coloured Double Dutch ropes designed for school use and workshops. Perfect for beginners or seasoned skippers looking to step up their skills.
Final Thoughts
Double Dutch brings energy, rhythm and a strong sense of achievement to any skipping session. It encourages cooperation, focus, and a lot of laughter - and when a child nails their first jump-in, the buzz is unbeatable.
So grab two ropes, get your team ready, and start skipping to the beat!
So why not give it a try in your next PE lesson? Or consider contacting us to book your own Skipping Workshop for your school to learn more about Double Dutch.
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