Hard to say whether we hate exercise more than we love gadgets. But jumping rope tips the scale by reminding us of childish pleasures. And then add the cool gadgetry of counting calories burned and exercise becomes a bit more palatable.

Something else it's really good for--burning off aggression, frustration, and boredom in a quickie office break.

The most affordable (and portable) piece of fitness gear --a jump rope--might be the best at burning calories too: Jumping rope can burn 1,000 calories per hour --like fast running but without the joint-jarring impact. It is great for cardio health and for toning and strengthening muscles. And as boxers know, jumping rope is unsurpassed at developing balance, reflexes, agility, coordination, endurance and speed --skills needed for sports and for daily lifestyle activities as well.

Tanita HealthyJump Rope (YH407)