This article originally appeared in Shape.
When it comes to accessible, easy-to-pick-up cardio workouts, jumping rope and running are both no-brainers. They require minimal (if any) equipment, won't cost you a ton of money, and are travel-friendly. But with so many similarities, it can be tough to decide which one you'll want to incorporate into your fitness routine if you're mostly after a solid heart-rate boost and sweaty workout.
There's nothing wrong with sprinkling both activities into your regimen, but if you're interested in further leaning into one modality, this guide will help you pick your poison. Here, fitness experts break down everything you'd want to know about jump rope vs. running, including each workout's major health benefits, impact on joints (you're likely wondering), muscles worked, and more.