I bought last year, I have not used that much, the timer seems accurate. I bought it to see if I liked it instead of the more expensive ones. There was not a DVD, there was an offer in the package for a DVD and also for weights for the handles. I bought a weighted jump rope from Marshalls and used the weights.

My sister has the airope and I tried it out this weekend, I have been using handles. Well, it made a difference in my jump by engaging my arms much more effectively. I could not finish the whole workout with this airless rope. Which means, I may just get this. It definately feels like you are jumping with a real rope.