For those who have seen Disney's 'Jump In', it may come as no surprise that Double Dutch rope jumping has finally been recognized as an official sport, at least in New York's high schools.

For those who haven't, it involves jumping between two ropes, which are being twirled, eggbeater style. Fun, yet quite strenuous - the perfect exercise!

The sport, which will be incorporated in the spring schedule, will start as soon as the basketball season is over.

School officials are hoping to attract hundreds of kids to participate and join the competitive leagues of this fun sport.

Double Dutch rope jumping involves at least three players, one or more jumping simultaneously, and two others twirling the ropes. Unlike with normal jump ropes, the jumper can be very creative and incorporate breakdancing or gymnastic moves.

As the name indicates, the sport was introduced to America by Dutch settlers in the 1600's. It became very popular, especially in New York for a number of years, but lost its clout to radio and music in the 1950's. It was revived in the 1970's, not by a sports person, but a New York detective - David Walker, who was looking for a competitive team sport for girls. He and his partner created the rules and turned the game into a World class competitive sport.

The first Double Dutch rope jumping competition was held in 1974, where 600 kids competed. Since then, the movement has spread all over the world and today over 100,000 kids actively participate in the sport.

While New York's school district is the first in the country to make it an official school sport, we have a feeling it won't be the last. And someday, this great sport may even make it to the Olympics. Do you think your school should introduce Double Dutch rope jumping as a sport? Be sure to let us know by adding your comment below.

Source: MSN.com, Wikipedia.org.