Why old-fashioned? For a leather cord that's preparing to grease (leather fat) after 45 minutes to 1 hour greasing (the first time) the rope become claret. It then gains sufficient weight for the rotational speed and robustness. In terms of the length ... it is properly explained on the box. the only slight negative is the 4.5 hexagonal key for reassembly disassembly ... In short rope notified of boxer hardens the coach or fitness / cardio pro