The star jump is a simple bodyweight aerobic exercise, involving jumping on the spot while coordinating the swinging of the arms and legs. There is also a similar exercise called the jumping jack.

Equipment Required: none

Technique

  1. Start in a crouching position, hands by your ankles.
  2. Leap into the air, simultaneously throwing your arms and legs out to sort of a star position.
  3. As you come back to the ground, return the hands and feet to the starting position.
  4. Repeat these actions without rest for a certain time period.
star jump or jumping jack exercisestar jump exercise

Key points to remember

  • Use a nice fluid motion

Alternatives

  • An easier 'star jump' is to land with the feet apart and arms out, rather than back to the starting position.
  • Increase the intensity by jumping higher and/or increasing the tempo
  • There is also a similar exercise called the jumping jack.