It's child's play to skip to happiness

THIS Friday marks National Skipping Day, with thousands of kids across Britain set to take part.

- 

But adults love the activity too. Boxers like Muhammad Ali and Anthony Joshua have used a jumping rope to tone up, as have stars such as Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly, as part of her workout regime.

And as JAMES MOORE reveals, it's not the only way getting in touch with your "inner child" could have health benefits...

Skipping: Did you know that experts at Fitness First found that a skipping session could burn more calories than jogging? You can work off 215 calories in 15 minutes, more than a packet of crisps. Skipping improves cardiovascular health and stamina. In fact, a 2013 study found that 10 minutes of skipping daily improved cardio fitness as much as 30-minute run. Jumping rope is also brilliant for building bone strength, according to a 2014 study, and can help with agility and co-ordination.