BEST Beginner Jump Rope Variation (2020) THE EB SIDECROSS!

1. Introduction – Meet the EB Sidecross beginner jump rope variation

In today’s session, we’re breaking down one of my favorite beginner jump rope variations — the EB Sidecross! It’s smooth, stylish, and adds that extra touch of flair to your rope flow.

Even though it’s beginner-friendly, this move teaches you how to link techniques together — the foundation of freestyle jumping. It combines two essential movements: the EB Sideswing and the Sideswing Crossover, creating one fluid and satisfying motion once mastered.

If you already know those basics, you’ll pick this one up fast. If not, no worries — I’ll break it down step by step so you can follow along and nail it in no time.

Let’s get it! 🔥

2. What Makes the EB Sidecross Special

The EB Sidecross beginner jump rope variation looks effortless once you’ve got it, but it’s actually a brilliant coordination exercise. It teaches:

✅ Timing and rhythm between both arms
✅ Rope control during cross-body transitions
✅ Smooth switching between front and back-hand movement

It’s one of those beginner jump rope variations that feels like a dance once it clicks. The move blends strength, control, and style — a true Elevate classic.

3. Move Breakdown

The EB Sidecross consists of two key components:

1. The EB Sideswing
2. The Sideswing Crossover

Once you master both individually, blending them becomes easy. Let’s go through each step in detail.

Step 1: EB Sideswing

Start with your rope behind your back.

• Swing your rope to your dominant side.
• Bring your dominant arm behind your back (EB position).
• Keep your non-dominant arm relaxed and slightly forward for balance.

The goal here is rhythm — not speed. You should feel comfortable transitioning your dominant hand behind your back without losing flow.

Step 2: Sideswing Crossover

Now that you’ve got the EB swing down, it’s time to learn the sideswing crossover.

Here’s how:

• Begin with a regular sideswing to your dominant side.
• As you swing, cross your dominant hand over to the opposite side of your body.
• Keep your non-dominant hand in “pocket position” (close to your hip, steady and still).
• After the crossover, exit with a sideswing back to the same side.

💡 Tip: Watch your hand placement — your dominant hand should stay on top during the crossover for smoother transitions.

4. Blending the Two – Unlocking the EB Sidecross

Once you’ve practiced both moves separately, it’s time to bring them together into one continuous flow.

Focus on these two key transition moments:

1. From EB Sideswing to Sideswing CrossAs you exit the EB position, pull your hand from behind your back directly into the cross pocket to start the sideswing crossover.
2. As you exit the EB position, pull your hand from behind your back directly into the cross pocket to start the sideswing crossover.
3. From Sideswing Cross Back to EBAs you leave the sideswing cross, pull your hand behind your back again to flow seamlessly into the EB swing.
4. As you leave the sideswing cross, pull your hand behind your back again to flow seamlessly into the EB swing.

If this transition feels tricky at first, try adding a small jump in between. That extra beat gives your brain time to process the motion. Once you feel more confident, remove that jump to create a smooth, uninterrupted rhythm.

5. Pro Tips for Mastering the Move

🔥 Start slow. Focus on clean form and controlled movement before increasing speed.
🔥 Stay relaxed. Keep your shoulders loose — tension kills flow.
🔥 Watch your timing. The rope should glide effortlessly around you, not fight your movement.
🔥 Film yourself. Seeing your form on video helps spot what to fix.

Mastery comes with repetition. Every jump builds muscle memory.

6. Why It’s the Best Beginner Jump Rope Variation

The EB Sidecross is one of the most satisfying beginner jump rope variation combos out there because it bridges the gap between simple rhythm and freestyle creativity.
You’ll not only burn calories and improve coordination — you’ll also start developing your own flow style.

Once you’ve got it down, it becomes a go-to move for transitions, combos, and creating new variations down the line.

7. Final Thoughts – Get Elevated 

Learning the EB Sidecross is about more than nailing a move — it’s about building rhythm, confidence, and control with your rope.

Start slow, stay patient, and remember: even the best jumpers started with basic swings. Every rep brings you closer to your next level. 

What are you waiting for?
Grab your rope, hit play on the tutorial, and let’s Elevate together.

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