In an intriguing twist to traditional skipping, the Double Dutch Contest Shanghai 2024 was held in Shanghai's Qingpu district on Nov 23 and 24, presenting a sports feast that was full of agility, speed, and passion.

The event attracted nearly 1,000 athletes from eight countries and regions, marking an unprecedented level of international participation.

Double Dutch is a popular sport — that is in essence a sophisticated and complex version of skipping — requiring a high degree of tacit understanding between jump rope partners.

Two swingers hold the ends of two ropes, which are beaten on the ground in the same or opposite directions, while jumpers perform tricks between the ropes.

With the integration of popular elements such as gymnastics, strength training, dance, steps, and music, Double Dutch offers a visual feast for viewers.

After two days of strong competition, the 30-second challenge contest record set last year — 138 single-foot jumps — was tied this year.

Dan Thompson, an athlete from the United States, was visiting Shanghai for the third time.

"The large screens, the lights, and everything is so professional and well done and I think the rest of the world has a lot to learn from China on how they perform and do contests in jump rope and Double Dutch," he said.

Since its inception in 2014, the Double Dutch Contest Shanghai has been held eight times, attracting nearly 400 teams from around the world.

During the Paris Olympics, Double Dutch appeared as a featured performance to a global audience.

Source: Qingpu district