Kgati: Skipping rope is a fun activity

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 By : Simon Majadibodu

Twitter : @Majadibodu Simon

Email : 19majadibodu@gmail.com



 
Photo from internet  :  A jump rope tool used in a game of  skipping rope

Kgati is a well-known activity that has been around for generations and is still popular and relevant today. Aside from it being one of the simplest activity for kids that only requires a jump rope available at home, it is interesting and fun.

Being a popular game across South Africa, it is known in different languages as Ntimo or Ugqaphu. Kgati is a game that requires fitness, coordination and a melodious singing voice. The game used to be played by girls, but now it has become attractive to male players too. 

It is played by two players, they hold the rope on each end, while the third player skips in different ways whilst singing. A player jumps the rope in any order according to the rhythm of the game they are playing, but elimination takes place if the rope is entangled. 


The are many variations involved in skipping rope such as criss-cross, jumping jack, front-and-back, one-foot hop, and different rhyme singing.

"Skipping rope (Kgati) is an outdoor activity and part of exercising, as it encourages the habit of thinking creativity, increases muscular strength and team skills", said 19-year-old Lucy Monene, who enjoys playing Kgati. 


Photo from internet : Kids playing Kgati

Playing Kgati is a good way to build muscular  strength and it provides a full-body workout by utilizing nearly every part of the body, like shoulders, legs, back and core. It also improves brain stimulation and social skills as it is played in a group. 

Maishibe Sadie Molala said, "Growing up she used to play Kgati in primary school with her friends, it was fun and does not require expensive equipment. We used an old rope from home. My favourite Kgati game is Peke". 

Mmutlanya o swere peke, ( dwarf rabbit is holding a pick mattock) is a game played by ten people. Two players hold the rope while others skip the rope and say Peke.  Same with Dipotsisho (questions and answers), but with this one, players are often asked to mention such as soapie actors of a particular drama, fruits and vegetables. 

"Playing Kgati is amazing. I am 22 years old but I'm still playing Kgati irregardless of my age. It helps to strengthen my bones and make my body calm and flexible" , said Nthabiseng Mautla. 



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