Hooping for Fitness

Like many kids in the 70's, I had a hula hoop. I vaguely remember being able to do it, but like most fads, it came and went.

Over the years the hoop has made some appearances, namely at the Olympics when rhythmic gymnastics hit the scene. Plus there was always a hoop act or two at the juggling conventions.

Partly because of Burning Man, hooping has come back with a vengeance in a bigger size suited for adults. There are even collapsible hoops and firehoops.

I had to have one. After almost a year of research and trying to find the right materials, I finally got what I needed and made my first hoop. I'm loving it as I relearn how to do it. Each day I can do it for a little longer. It's an all over workout that reaches every muscle. So I plan to keep doing it so I can share the benefits with all of you later.

If you are an adult and you plan to get a hoop, measure from the ground to a spot between your belly button and your chest. Let the maker know if you have a bigger waist too, so they can get you the best fit. The cheapo 'toy' hoops are going to be too small and too light for you. Trust me on this one. And don't forget to stretch first.

Many hoopers say they enter a trance state or a meditative state while hooping. This makes sense to me since any repetitive motion can create a hypnotic state. But you will need to develop some stamina to reach that point, so a few minutes daily is better than a giant session on a Saturday.