The Lowdown
Crossrope’s Ropeless AMP system replaces a traditional jump rope with short weighted attachments that clip onto smart handles. The result is a compact, low-impact workout tool that can be used almost anywhere without worrying about tripping, noise, ceiling height, or needing to jump.
Overall
Pros
- Easy to use
- Fun alternative to traditional jump rope workouts
- App tracks revolutions in real time
- Works up a sweat fast!
Cons
- Monthly/Yearly subscription required for workout tracking
I’ll admit it: when I first heard about a “ropeless” jump rope, I wondered what the point was. Isn’t the rope kind of the whole idea? But after trying the Crossrope Ropeless AMP Set, I started to see the appeal. You still get the motion and resistance of jumping rope, but without needing coordination or even needing to jump! That sounded like a pretty good deal to me! I’ve been using the Crossrope Ropeless system to see how it works, how it feels, and whether it can actually deliver a worthwhile workout without the rope.
What Is It?
The Crossrope Ropeless is basically a jump rope without the rope. Instead of a long rope that you have to jump over, the handles are attached to short weighted cables that swing as you rotate your wrists. This gives you the resistance and movement of a weighted jump rope while eliminating the tripping, noise, and need for a lot of space.
What’s Included?
Crossrope sells different bundles. They sent me the following, which isn’t one of their advertised bundles but is close to their Ropeless AMP set (minus the 1/4 lb attachments):
- Crossrope AMP handles
- Crossrope Ropeless 1/2 lb and 1 lb attachments
- USB charging cable
Design and Features
The Ropeless AMP system is simple, which is great. Nothing here is going to confuse you, and there’s no learning curve. You have handles and attachments that attach to those handles. Easy!
First, let’s talk about the AMP handles. They have a grippy rubber/silicon covering so that they won’t go flying out of your hands when you’re in the middle of a workout. They also have a nice heft.
One handle has a power button on the end that toggles power and pairs the handles with your phone/tablet through the app (more about that below).
The end unscrews to reveal a removable battery.
The battery has a built-in USB-C charging port. You guessed it, you have to charge the battery before your first Ropeless workout. I do wish that the handle had a built-in charging port so the battery didn’t need to be removed from the handle, but that’s just a little complaint and definitely not a deal breaker because the battery provides up to 6 months of use per charge.
At the opposite end of each AMP handle is a swivel with spring-loaded clips.
The weighted attachment clips securely into each handle. You don’t need to worry that the weighted attachments will accidentally fly off the handles when you’re in the middle of an intense workout session. Once clipped in, they stay secure.
The weighted attachments are available in weights from 1/4 lb to 3 lb. I was sent the 1/2 and 1 lb versions. Is anyone else getting a nunchuck vibe here? Just me? Ok, let’s move on.
Setup / Crossrope App
With the AMP handle charged and the attachments clipped in, the next step is to install the app on your phone or tablet. When you first start the app, it runs you through the steps to pair the handles with the app. It’s quick and easy, and once completed, you’re ready to tackle your first Ropeless session.
You can choose from a variety of programs, including ones for other types of workouts that don’t use the Ropeless.
Or you can just jump in and start twirling that weights while watching the live view through the app that shows your revolutions, speed, and time.
I enjoyed doing my own thing and the more detailed workouts because I liked seeing the live view of my workout stats on my phone’s display.
After the workout, you can review the stats.
App Caveat
You can use the Crossrope Ropeless set right out of the box and even skip charging the battery. But doing that means you won’t be able to enjoy those special live tracking features or workout options. To take advantage of those features, you have to opt into a membership plan.
Yes, that’s right, a membership is required to pair your handles and track your stats. A Lite Membership ($4.99/mo) unlocks Sculpt Mode and basic tracking. A Standard Membership ($119/yr or $8.25/mo) adds all guided workouts and classes, custom workouts, and more. Your first year of the Standard Membership is $99, so you do get a small discount.
My Experience Using the Crossrope Ropeless AMP System
After a couple of weeks of using the Crossrope Ropeless AMP Set every 2-3 days, I’ve found that I enjoy it. Don’t confuse this to mean that I think that they are easy to use because they do cause a burn – FAST. For me, the burn isn’t where I think it should be, though. My shoulders start burning faster than my arms. I do think this is a “me” problem, though. I have bad shoulders. Both have been frozen at one time or another, and I tend to hold my tension in my shoulders.
I need to work on stretching and warming up before working out, and I think that will help alleviate this problem. But even with my issues, I’ve noticed possible improvements in my grip strength, and twirling the Ropeless “ropes” works up a sweat, which is always good, right?
Final Thoughts
The Crossrope Ropeless AMP system surprised me. I expected it to feel as awkward as a traditional jump rope, but it delivers a legitimately challenging workout without needing ceiling clearance, perfect timing, or leaving the ground. It is easy to pick up, the weighted attachments feel secure, and the AMP handles and app make it more engaging than simply twirling weights around.
It is a fun, low-impact alternative for small spaces, travel, or anyone who wants a quick upper-body-focused workout. The subscription requirement is a drawback, especially considering the starting price, but I still found the Ropeless system motivating enough to keep reaching for the AMP handles a couple of times a week.
The Crossrope Ropeless AMP Set bundles start at $129 (does not include subscription); it is available directly from the manufacturer and other retailers, including Amazon.
Source: Manufacturer-supplied review sample.
What I Like: Easy to use; Fun alternative to traditional jump rope workouts; App tracks revolutions in real time; Works up a sweat fast!
What Needs Improvement: Monthly/Yearly subscription required for workout tracking