Jumping jack facts for kids
A jumping jack is a fun and energetic exercise. It's also called a star jump. You jump to spread your legs wide and raise your arms overhead. Then, you jump back to bring your feet together and arms to your sides. It's a great way to get your heart pumping!
Where Did the Name "Jumping Jack" Come From?
Many people think the jumping jack exercise was named after General John J. "Black Jack" Pershing. He was a U.S. General during World War I. However, this is not true. The name actually comes from a children's toy. This toy is also called a jumping jack. When you pull its strings, its arms and legs move out, just like you do in the exercise!
Who Made Jumping Jacks Popular?
A famous fitness expert named Jack LaLanne helped make jumping jacks well-known. He didn't invent the exercise. But he showed it often on his TV fitness shows. He taught people how to stay fit for many years.
Different Kinds of Jumping Jacks
There are a few ways to do jumping jacks. Some are harder than others.
Power Jacks: Jump Higher!
Power jacks are like regular jumping jacks. But you squat down lower before you jump. Then, you jump as high as you can. This makes the exercise more intense.
Half Jacks: Easier on Your Shoulders
Half-jacks are a gentler version. They were created to help prevent shoulder injuries. In half-jacks, your arms only go halfway above your head. They don't go all the way up. Your arms also touch your sides to make the jump tighter.
Amazing Jumping Jack Records
People have set some cool records with jumping jacks!
- The most jumping jacks done in one minute is 110. Gaber Kahlawi Gaber Ali achieved this record. It happened in Cairo, Egypt, on October 10, 2019.
- In 2010, National Geographic Kids held a big event. It was part of Michelle Obama's "Let's Move!" exercise campaign. Over 300,000 people did jumping jacks for one minute. This happened in 1,050 places within 24 hours!
