By LESLIE McMICHAEL

Vashon Film Society

If you thought skipping rope was just for the playground, the high-energy documentary “JUMP!” will yank you up to date on the competitive extreme sport of jump rope.

The award-winning film is being co-presented by Vashon Film Society and Vashon Theatre and will screen at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the theater.

“JUMP!” follows five teams from across the United States that commit to grueling practice routines to qualify for the World Rope Skipping Competition, which occurs annually at Walt Disney World in Florida.

First-time director Helen Hood Scheer said she was compelled to make her documentary after seeing a jump rope competition broadcast on ESPN.

Struck by the blend of art and athleticism in the sport, Scheer hit the road to film young jump-ropers and coaches as they pushed their physical and psychological limits to get to the championships.

Although the top jumpers are fiercely competitive, the jump rope league’s motto — “sharing and caring” — is a constant refrain for those working to develop the sport.

“These athletes are pioneers and evangelists, constantly expanding the sport by creating new moves and sharing them with others worldwide,” Scheer said.

“JUMP!” is part of the Vashon Theatre and Vashon Film Society’s Winter Family Film Series. The film is 85 minutes long, and admission is $6. For more information, call 567-4768.

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