Background

Background

Formed in 2014, Black Girls Jump (BGJ) began hosting free weekly double dutch jump rope games at Chicago parks and advertising jump rope events on Facebook and Twitter.

BGJ’s motto “Having Fun. Getting Fit”, exemplified the organization’s focus on promoting jump rope as a fun, playful form of fitness for black females. Within the first year, BGJ grew to include groups in Washington D.C, Denver, CO, Milwaukee, WI, Winston-Salem, NC and Charlotte, NC. The organization promotes jumping rope as a highly effective exercise for cardiovascular health, strong bones and healthy muscles. The organization is independently funded and not affiliated with other health organizations.

     Click to view Black Girls Jump promotional video, 2014.

 

BGJ targets two populations currently disproportionately impacted by health disparities– African American women and children. Research indicates:

“African-Americans suffer disproportionately from obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. Decreased physical activity and increased inactivity levels have been shown to be independent risk factors for the development of chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. (African-Americans and Heart Disease, Stroke, 2016).”

A study found obesity among women differed significantly by race group. Between 2001–2004, one-half of African American women were obese compared with nearly one-third of white women. In contrast, the prevalence of obesity among men was similar by race and ethnicity. (Chartbook on Trends in the Health of Americans,  2006.)

“By ages 16-17, 56% of African-American girls had no regular leisure-time physical activity. (Kimm & Glynn, 2002).”

As double dutch jump is situated in urban black girl culture, preliminary research indicated double dutch ignites positive childhood memories for adult BGJ participants. As a form of physical play, jump rope games may also provide stress relief, healthy competition and social engagement opportunities.

Continue to the project’s literature review