Let’s face it… Over the last year we have all seen our lives come to a grinding halt in more ways than one. Many people are spending more time at home than ever. Some folks are home working, others have become homeschool teachers and cafeteria staff, and many have found it increasingly more difficult to get the exercise they want. With gyms around the country operating at minimum capacity, a cautious hesitation to spend too much time around others, and a household to run, you may be wondering how you can find an exercise to get you going. Well, we have one idea that will get you moving and having fun.
It is a great way to exercise.
It’s probably been a few years since you picked up a hula hoop and gave it a spin, but any old hoop won’t do. One of the best ways to set yourself up for a successfully hula hoop journey is to make sure you are using a hoop that is the correct size for you. When holding the hoop up beside you, it should reach your waist. Your best bet is to make your own beginner hula hoop.
Once you’ve got your hands on your dream hoop, the fun part gets to start. Before beginning any exercise routine, it is important to stretch your arms, legs, back, and torso. You should be able to notice a difference in your posture and positioning once you’re limber and relaxed. Swing the hoop around your waist and shift your weight back and forth, building momentum as the hoop spins around you. Start slowly and give yourself plenty of space to find your rhythm and flow. As you continue to practice each day, be conscious of working yourself up to 30 minutes of active hooping.
The surprising perks to consider.
In the event you still are not convinced that hooping is for you, we have a few more reasons you’ll join the fun soon enough. The benefits of hula hooping cannot be debated. If you pick one up and dedicate a little time to it each day, you will quickly see a difference.
Burn loads of calories.
Did you know you could be burning up to 450 calories after an hour of hula hooping? With traditional gym and exercise routines, you’ll be lucky to burn 300 calories per workout… That’s a huge difference! Anyone trying to drop a significant amount of weight or looking for ways to get your heart rate up, hooping is the solution for you.
Help alleviate back pain.
Do you suffer from back issues and pain? If the answer is yes, you have certainly tried your fair share of options to find relief. One of the major proponents of back pain is poor posture; what starts as sore shoulders will seemingly stretch down your back before you know what happened. Hula hooping is a fantastic way to practice proper posture while strengthening your core muscles. You’ll notice right away it is virtually impossible to hoop when you are slouched over!
Enhance your mind and body connection.
Meditation is an exceptional way to refocus your mind, clear out negative thoughts, and spend some time in your own mind – peacefully. Some of us may struggle to find the calm through traditional meditation practices, but the combination of aerobics, mental focus, and rhythmic movements is a sure way to help quiet the outside world. Any opportunity to find a way to lower stress levels while getting your heart pumping is worth a shot.
Don’t wait – get yourself a hula hoop today!
We all have a lot to keep track of during our daily lives, and for many of us, our exercise routines are the first things to go. Juggling day-to-day tasks, running errands, paying bills, and making time to swing by the gym may not be very practical, but who needs to hassle with a gym when you can exercise right at home. Get your family involved and make it an activity everyone will enjoy. Before you know it, you’ll be raving about the benefits of hooping. What is your favorite part of hula hooping? What made you get started?
Hoopmakers University A comprehensive guide for hoopsmiths and hoopers – answering all of your questions from deciphering sizing of tubing, tubing types, how to create the perfect connection, the tools you’ll need to create a hoop, and beyond!!
Whether you are just starting out with hula hooping, or you’ve become a master, you may find there are days you just don’t feel like getting up and moving. Maybe you’ve had a long week, you’re feeling especially tired, and the house needs to be cleaned… You have just got too much to do! But putting yourself first is a priority and when you find yourself in a rut, it can seem impossible to find the motivation you need. Well, grab your hula hoop and get yourself pumped about hooping! We’ve got a few ideas we’re certain you’ll enjoy.
Use a hoop you love.
If you’ve never taken the time to create your own custom hoop, you are missing out on a genuinely exciting experience. When you buy a hula hoop from a hobby or craft store, there are limited options available. Making your own hula hoop is an easy project anyone can do. You’ll need a few supplies to get started, but don’t fret, Hoopologie has got everything you need – and then some.
Add a personal touch to your hula hoop.
Hoop tape has a variety of functions other than being aesthetically pleasing. In fact, there are infinite choices when you start looking. Some tapes help the user to grip the hoop while dancing and others add a protective layer so you don’t have to worry about dings and scrapes on your hula hoop. Gaffer, reflective, and mirror tapes are often used to enhance the personality of your hula hoop and come in every color you can imagine. We’ll show you everything you need to know about hula hoop take and how to take your hoop to the next level.
Have you ever attended a music and art festival or outdoor concert? You’ll be hard pressed to miss the group of folks’ hula hooping and dancing through the crowd. Music is great for the soul and is an exceptional way to tap into all kinds of emotions and bottled up energy. When you add a physical activity to the mix, like hula hooping, you’re opening yourself up to a brand-new experience. Opening your mind and losing yourself in your activity is a great way to tap into your flow state.
Find your hoop space.
Getting into your element makes a big difference. If you normally enjoy spending your time outside in the sunshine, you may find it is easier to find your groove when you hoop in your favorite places. Set your thoughts aside, find your happy place, and express yourself in a way that makes your feel good – mentally and physically. There are many benefits of hula hooping you may not have considered! So, get your heart rate up, your hips moving, and take your hoop on an adventure!
We are passionate about hooping!
At Hoopologie, we are inspired by love, creativity, and FLOW. Sharing our passion for hula hooping with you is at the core of who we are. We want to hear from you so leave a comment! What inspires you?
Hoopmakers University A comprehensive guide for hoopsmiths and hoopers – answering all of your questions from deciphering sizing of tubing, tubing types, how to create the perfect connection, the tools you’ll need to create a hoop, and beyond!!
Whether you’re new to hooping and aren’t sure where to start, or are looking to refresh your practice, look no further!
Think back to your happiest memory; where time felt like it was stopped, when your senses were in-tune, and you were completely present. This euphoric state of mind can be achieved through movement, exercise, and creative expression is commonly known as the “flow state”, “movement meditation”, or compared to “runner’s high”. Now, imagine an activity that could transport you to that blissful, peaceful place?
Hula hooping, or hoop dance, is a playful, aerobic exercise, and is fabulously effective in helping reach fitness goals. Hooping also increases energy levels, confidence, dexterity and coordination, mental clarity, as well as providing a sense of achievement. With mental-health issues, stress, anxiety, and depression at an all time high, people are exploring creative ways to emote, express, release, and play. Some are learning a new sport, or a new style of fitness, while some are exploring their favorite childhood toys and pastimes.
If you’re brand new to hooping, internet searches can be confusing and overwhelming. Here at Hoopologie, we’ve created a Beginner Hooper Guide starting with the basics including; beginner hoop recommendations, differences in tubing, grip (tape, sanding, wax), posture, tips for success, and more.
Hoopologie Ambassdor, Hillia Hula describes the “Top 8 Things ALL New Hoopers Should Know”
Lets get started! What size hoop is best for me? Hoopologie’s standard Beginner Hoop recommendation is a 40″ diameter hoop or larger, made with a minimum of 3/4″ diameter tubing, but preferably, 7/8″ diameter tubing. Many hoopers’ first hoops are heavy, weighted fitness hoops from their local department stores or internet searches and are often 2lbs or heavier. Our heaviest fitness hoops are 1.2 – 1.5lbs, making a mid-weight hoop that is suitable for hoopers developing their muscle memory, while light enough to not leave bruising and soreness.
What different kinds of tubing are available and which one should I choose? Polypropylene (Polypro):Polypro tubing is the most widely available and popular type of tubing on the market today. Polypro is a light, bouncy, and responsive tubing that is loved by hoopers of all experience levels. While quite durable, polypro has its weaknesses. It can be fragile in extremely cold climates, suseptable to warping and misshaping in extreme heat, and can crack under pressure. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE): HDPE is a fan favorite amongst hoop makers and hoopers alike. HDPE is a light, durable tubing, with a firmness unlike polypro, yet responsive and quick moving. Hoop-smiths everywhere love HDPE tubing for its forgiving attributes, ability to retain its shape, and ease to cut and manipulate. Polyethylene (PE): PE tubing identical to the black irrigation tubing found at many hardware stores, only Hoopologie made it custom in white. This tubing is a medium weight ideal for beginner – intermediate hoops. Stardust (Polypropylene): Stardust tubing is a proprietary blend, custom designed by and made for Hoopologie. This stunning, glittery tubing is a show-stopper, especially in the bright sunshine! Stardust tubing is specially made to be more bouncy, more responsive, and more grippy. These attributes can have side effects that can affect this tubing – it is more delicate in colder temperatures and can crack with impacts on hard surfaces. *Stardust tubing is not recommended for newer hoopers or children*
What kinds of grip options are out there and which one should I choose? While few things feel as nice as a fresh hula hoop with no scuffs, scratches, or markings, a perfectly smooth hula hoop can be increasingly challenging to maintain a level and consistent spin. There are many grip options out there, here are the most common: Sanding: Sanding is the most budget friendly grip option and allows each individual hooper to choose their intensity of grip. TIP: Gently rub a piece of fresh sandpaper around the inner rim of your hoop 1-2x or until desired result is achieved. Wax:Hoop wax is often made with a bees-wax base and is applied in a similar way as sanding. Hoop wax is made in-house and can be purchased as an addition to your hoop. TIP: Hoop wax is not recommended for taped hoops Tapes (gaffer, electrical, low-profile, and 3m): Many beginner hoops made today are crafted with grip tape. Electrical tape has a smooth, yet grippy texture and is quite durable. Gaffer tape comes in many colors and widths, making it a great addition to both bare and taped hoops, however, gaffer tape’s adhesive may weaken if exposed to too much moisture. Low-profile grip tape is a durable, thin, and grippy tape, perfect for bare polypro and HDPE hoops. *Not recommended for taped hoops* 3m is a soft, textured surface at 33 mils (0.8 mm) thick that is durable and abrasion resistant. 3M tape adds amazing grip and cushioning to all kinds of hoops.
Travel Hoops vs Sectionals vs Collapsible Love taking your hoop every where with you? Many hoops are fastened closed with tape, a connecting joint, or some combination of the two, making it challenging carry your hoop with you. Over the last few years, hoops have begun to be made with a push-button connection. The Collapsible hoop allows the hooper to disconnect the hoop at its joint and coil it down to attach to a bag, etc. Sectional and travel hoops are gaining more and more popularity, allowing hoopers to take their hoops any and every where with them – the Hoopnotica Travel Hoop is perfect for beginners and experienced hoopers alike; made with 1″ diameter tubing, push-button connectors, spiraled with beautiful mirror tape and gaffer (grip) tape, a travel strap and can be connected with 6 segments to create a 42″ diameter hoop, and 5 segments to create a 37″ diameter hoop.
Morgan Jenkins – @missmojangles – How To Assemble Your Hoopnotica Travel Hoop
Hoop dance helps hoopers of all body types increase mind/body connection, coordination, stamina, energy levels, and mental clarity. When you first begin hooping, you may feel muscle activation of muscles you didn’t know existed! You may experience some mild soreness when you first begin hooping, though there are a few postural adjustments you can make to extend your practice times and feel more receptive to new muscle memory connections. Before hooping: Hydrate, especially if you’re living and hooping in hot or very dry climates, or dancing in the direct sun. Stretch: With your hoop; lift your hoop over head and do a few, slow, mindful stretches to each side. Forward fold while holding your hoop in front of you, soften your knees and hinge from your hips rather than rounding over your low back. Quad stretch – hold your hoop in front of your body, step one foot the hoop, hook your hoop on your back-leg ankle and gently lift your leg in the air until you feel a stretch in your quad. Repeat on each side. Open your shoulders *hoop optional* – windmill one arm at a time in a forward circular motion for 30 seconds, reverse the rotation of your hand and repeat on each side, in each direction for 30 seconds. Posture: Keep your knees and elbows soft – don’t lock your joints out. Relax your shoulders down your back, lift your sternum, rest your facial muscles, and find a comfortable and sturdy stance. Intentional breath can immensely help your practice, focus, energy levels, and mood – so don’t forget to take steady and calm breaths and allow your body to move through your flow.
Hoopmakers University A comprehensive guide for hoopsmiths and hoopers – answering all of your questions from deciphering sizing of tubing, tubing types, how to create the perfect connection, the tools you’ll need to create a hoop, and beyond!!
As we all continue to hunker down, you may have found yourself asking how you’ll be able to entertain your family, let alone yourself! Have you considered hula hooping or hoop making as your next avenue to fun? Whether you are looking for something new to keep you active or introduce your kids to something new, you will soon discover why so many people enjoy hooping.
Aside from being a fun way to spend your time, there are many benefits to hula hooping including mental coordination and physical fitness.
Find your creative side.
There is a lot more to hula hooping than just spinning a hoop around your body. It’s an expression of who you are and the passion you feel inside. Your energy is colorful and flows from within you; your hula hoop should match. One of the most exciting parts of starting on this adventure is finding a hoop that represents you as an individual. Which hula hoop is right for you? The options are endless!
Finding the right dance hoop size is the first place to get started. Just like any sport, having the proper equipment, that fits you, and is comfortable to use will make a huge difference in your overall experience. It may look intimidating when you see how many options exist, but getting the proper size established is universally important. Traditional hula hoops are large, but over the generations, we have embraced all sizes! Right now, you may be looking for a good beginner hula hoop, but before too long you may be ready to ignite your excitement with a fire hoop.
Truly… The choices are incredible!
You are not limited to prebuilt, off the shelf hula hoops. If you don’t see any that call your name, you can easily make your own Polypro Hula Hoop at home. With some simple supplies, you’ll be crafting a masterpiece before you know it. On top of doing this for you, your whole family can spend the day making a hula hoop they can use for years to come.
Where can I learn more about Hoop Making?
You can find all of the videos you’ll need to help you craft you own hoop by visiting the HOOPMAKERS University page. With dozens of hours of tutorials, explanations of pieces, and instructions, you’ll find an answer to any questions along the way.
Still have questions? Check out some of the Common Questions and Answers Regarding Hoop Making and challenge us to answer any question you may still have! At Hoopologie, hula hooping is our passion, and a joy we hope to share with the world. Together, we can spin your world around.
A hula hoop is more than just a toy. Though most of us were introduced in childhood, there is no reason to give up the joy, happiness, and youthful feeling associated with this wholesome activity. If it has been a while since you picked up a hoop – don’t worry! We are going to show you how to get started, where to find resources on this adventure, and outline some of the reasons you should be excited to try something new.
Getting Started is Easy
All you need to get started is a hula hoop, plenty of space to move around, and a little determination. Finding the proper size hoop is important for your overall experience. Check out our HDPE & POLYPRO TUBE SIZING GUIDE to learn all about the materials used to create hula hoops, inner and outer diameters, and how to select a size hoop that works for you.
When you’re ready to get started, be sure you begin with the proper posture and form. It may sound silly, but you aren’t looking to put more strain on your body! Your feet should be a little more than shoulder-width apart, one foot slightly in front of the other, keep your back straight, and core muscles engaged. With the hoop resting around your back and hips, start spinning the hoop. As it begins to move around your waist in a circular motion, push your hips forward and backward. Congratulations! You are now a hula hooper.
In 2017 the Mayo Clinic supported this claim by stating hula hooping can provide results similar to other aerobic activities such as dancing. Adding weights to hoops increases the results.
It builds confidence.
Anytime you are spending time improving your lifestyle, and finding ways to boost your happiness, your confidence increases. I can attest to this and shared my story here: 3 Ways Hooping Helped Me Build Confidence.
Family friendly and focused activity.
Kids and adults can both enjoy the art of hula hooping. In addition to the physical health benefits, you can add an artistic flair to your hoops by adding HOOP TAPE. If you’ve never added tape to your hoops, view our tutorial on How to Tape a Hula Hoop. Before you know it, everyone in your family will be building their own hoops and showing off their personalities in a whole new way.
So many of us spend our days working from behind a desk, typing on computers, or driving all over town to get everything done. As we get older, our backs are more prone to aches and pains throughout the day. Without some form of exercise, you’ll continue to deal with these side effects. Try hooping for your back pain.
Improves Back Pain.
Now that you’re convinced, get yourself out there and start hooping! You and your entire family can enjoy a fun experience, create memories, and explore a hobby everyone can enjoy. Get inspired to begin your own story.
Being confident and loving yourself is one of the hardest things to have in the society we live in today. There’s just so much comparison and unrealistic expectations that we, especially as women, put on ourselves that stunts your growth, distracts us from true happiness, and causes anxiety/social anxiety and depression.
The good news is that self-confidence and self-esteem isn’t inherited, it’s a skill that can be learned!
It’s time to ask yourself, “Why is building self-confidence important to you?” Do you ever find yourself sitting alone at a party or gathering, wishing that you can interact with people? Maybe you’ve started dating and want to make a good impression when you meet a potential love interest.
The first step in building self-confidence is knowing WHY you want to achieve it. Find your purpose.
For as long as I can remember, I had always been the “quiet one.” As a child, I used to hide behind my mom when strangers would come up to us. When I would attend family gatherings, I would sit in a secluded room and away from people because I felt like I didn’t have anything to contribute. Even up until early adulthood, I was still cowering away from big groups and not participating in what looked like really fun activities.
I would think to myself, “why is so hard to go out there and make friends? Why aren’t you enjoying life to the fullest. You are a grown a** women still acting as though you’re 5 years old cowering behind whatever you can find. This is so silly! All of the people you know are laughing and smiling, and doing amazing things with their lives – why aren’t you?!
My focus shifted and my purpose was so strong, I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I was internally screaming – HEY! LIFE IS SHORT TO BE SITTING ON THE SIDE LINES. I began to open my heart and mind to my endless creative potential. I started educating myself and reading self-help books. I went shopping and bought some clothes that made me feel pretty. My only best friend at the time dragged me to my first music and art festival where I furthered my self discovery, and was given permission to be as weird as I wanted to be and still be accepted.
My desire to live loudly started to grow….
My desire to live loudly started to grow and it was around that time where I decided to pick up hooping. This new found confidence didn’t happen overnight. Consistent practice of learning new things and getting out of your comfort zone is the key to growth.
When I first started hooping, I remember practicing inside my tiny apartment for a full year, 2 hours a day every day and basically taught myself because I was afraid to go out into public. When I was finally able to hoop around the waist consistently and do a few tricks, I decided it was time to step outside and hoop at a public park.
I’m not going to sugar coat this – be prepared if you’re planning to hoop in public! People will stare and a lot of times crowd around you like you’re entertainment. “Dance monkey dance! Do something cool!” People will come up to you and ask you questions as though you’re a hoop expert even though you’re not.
Hooping was the biggest catalyst that helped me build confidence and self-esteem!
It wasn’t easy at first, but I learned to embrace those public interactions. This was the perfect opportunity to chat with strangers about something I loved. Not only was I building social skills, but I was also building my self-confidence because the topic was something that I was passionate about.
Hooping was the biggest catalyst that helped me build confidence and self-esteem!
For nearly three years after I started hooping, I hosted hoop jams at a public park every single weekend and I began to teach beginner hoop classes. You can imagine the amount of opportunities I had to practice with my local community. It was phenomenal! I also brought hooping to my place of work every single day, and it inspired dozens of co-workers to start hooping with me. I even hooped at our company’s annual meeting with the CEO!
There are three main things that hooping has taught me which attributed to my newfound confidence and self-esteem:
Body awareness: Sometimes, if people have difficulties with body awareness, they may appear clumsy, uncoordinated, or have delays in motor skills. When you start hooping, you begin to feel and move parts of your body that you probably weren’t aware of before, especially when you start to learn new moves and tricks. Why is body awareness so important? It helps us know how they move and work, and even how they feel. It also helps us understand how to relate to objects and people.
Being Present In The Moment: When you start hooping…like really start to hoop, you get into the “zone” or some may call it the “flow state.” You inadvertently become present with your hoop; only able to focus on your breathe, how you feel, and your movement. There’s nothing quite like it.
Self-worth: I use to be scared of doing anything in public because I feared being the center of attention and people judging me. However, the more I hooped, the more I realize – HEY I’m doing this solely for myself and no one else. I’m reaping benefits on SO many levels; why not share my knowledge? We all deserve to live out loud and be proud of all of our accomplishments. There’s no sense in hiding anymore. Appreciate what you have to give the world without looking at anyone else for comparison. Learn what makes you YOU and embrace all of your unique qualities.
Are you struggling with confidence? If so, what is your WHY? Why do want to change? What steps have you taken to move yourself forward and grow? Or maybe you have a success story. Either way, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share and leave a comment below. 🙂
Have you ever found yourself sitting in front of the computer or on your phone for hours on end, and then later realize that you don’t remember the last time you actually got up and walked around. When was the last time you went to the bathroom or drank water?!
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, nor am I any kind of professional in the medical field. You know your body better than anyone. If you’re experiencing abnormal aches and pain, you may want to check with your doctor before trying anything new. With that out of the way, let’s continue.
Before we can get into how hooping can potentially help with back pain, we first need to understand one of the main reasons why we have back pain in the first place.
Many of us spend over 6 hours or more sitting down every single day, and a expanding rear end isn’t the only thing that is happening. Sitting can have both short and long term effects on your body and health, making this seemingly overlooked activity highly detrimental.
This infographic by Washington Post breaks down some of the most unsettling side effects of sitting down all day.
What goes wrong in our bodies when we park ourselves for nearly eight hours per day? A chain of problems from head to toe.
“If you don’t use it, you lose it!”
By sitting all day, your muscles loosens and weakens throughout your body. Without strong legs and glutes, our lower body becomes unable to holds us up when sitting down or keep us stable when walking or doing other activities, putting us at risk of injury.
Another obvious yet often ignored consequence of sitting for long hours is poor circulation. Poor circulation can cause blood pool in the legs and feet, which can lead to varicose veins, swollen ankles, or even dangerous blood cots!
The longer you sit and maintain bad posture, the more likely you are to experience chronic pain in areas such as your neck, shoulders, back, hips, and legs. According to a National Health Statistics Report by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), over 50% of American adults have some type of musculoskeletal pain-disorder-pain in the lower back, sciatica, neck, joints, as well as other related conditions – while 20.3% reported having lower back pain.
Anybody can (and should) reduce the effects of their sedentary lifestyles by simply getting up and moving more. So there’s no need to don’t quit your desk job, stop watching moves, or going on long car rides.
The best way to offset the side effects of sitting at a desk for hours is to really maintain a constant stream of activity throughout the day, everyday. You can do this by taking regular breaks and going for out for a quick walk or…..grab a hula hoop and waist hoop to two or three of your favorite tunes!
How does hula hooping help with back pain?
Hula hooping is a low impact exercise, so just about anybody can do this. When you’re hooping around the waist, you are literally moving your entire body, increasing your circulation and flexibility, and strengthening your core muscles. All of these things make for a great remedy for back pain, an increase in energy, weight loss, and overall healthy body.
All you have to do is to get yourself a nice big beginner hula hoop that is approximately half the size of your body or bigger and start hooping. You don’t need a big studio or lots of space to hula hoop. Try hooping by your desk at work, in your living room or bedroom, but of course there’s also outside. If you don’t know how to hula hoop, check out some beginner hoop tutorial here.
Of course, it also helps to stay fit by finding ways to increase your daily physical activity. It may take some getting used to, but if it can prevent you from suffering any sitting-related health issues, then it’s certainly worth the effort.
Buy one beginner hoop and get a FREE gift! Offer ends on Mother’s Day May 12th.
Beginning your hoop-making journey can be a little intimidating, but fret not! We are here to help you make this as easy as possible while answering many of the basic questions you might have as you start out.
Supplies Needed for Making Hoops
– Tubing
– Pipe cutters
– Riveter
– Handheld power drill or drill press
– Drill bits
– Push buttons
– Rivets
– Tape measure
– Super glue (to glue gaffer tape ends down – optional)
– Other supplies you may need depending on the type of hoop you are making include decorative tape, 3M crystal clear protection tape to cover decorative tape, and gaffer tape or 3M grip tape to add grip to a hoop. Gaffer adds a nice subtle grip, while 3M grip tape provides a super grip that many people love. Some people prefer to have their hoop bare with no grip, and others may prefer to have the hoop sanded with sandpaper or waxed with hoop wax for a more natural grip that doesn’t add any weight to the hoop.
Extra Info on Rivets, Snap Buttons, and Drill Bits
Rivets are used to secure one side of the insert piece to the hoop, while push buttons are used on the other side of the insert piece to make a hoop collapsible. The push button allows you open up the hoop and coil it down for travel! While push buttons are not necessary, they are used in most hoop connections for convenience in shipping and traveling.
Snap Button Sizes:
Extra Small snaps are for 1/2″ hoops (3/8” insert material)
Small snaps are for 5/8″ hoops (1/2” insert material)
Medium snaps are for 3/4″ hoops (5/8” insert material)
Large snaps are for 7/8″ and larger PE hoops (3/4” insert material and larger)
Universal Straight Leg snaps are for 5/8” and 3/4″ hoops (1/2” and 5/8” insert material)
Small Coil vs. Large Coil & How to Stretch and Store Tubing
Small coil is wound on a smaller hub, so the diameter of the coil is much smaller and can fit in a smaller box- the main reason the cost is much lower. Large coils are larger in diameter and make it much easier to make larger hoops out of since you do not need to stretch the tubing.
Large Coil
Most people, however, still choose to use small coil and stretch it out themselves. This can be done by opening the coil of tubing as soon as you receive it (cut the tape and ties off). Many people leave the coil flat on the floor to expand on it’s own, which works great for HDPE tubing. For polypro tubing you may need to coil the tubing around a large object such as a box, etc…
Whatever coil size you choose, make sure to cut the flat parts off both ends of the tubing. This wastage is common in hoop making and each coil is a few feet longer than 100’ to allow for these flat parts to be cut off. Coils should be stored reconnected with a piece of insert material to keep the round shape of the ends, and can be stored flat on the ground or you can hang them with bungee cords on a rack!
Small Coil
Additional information regarding tubing sizes and the comparison of Polypro & HDPE can be found in our guide here!
Insert Material
There are various types of insert material available in the hoop world today. The most popular type of connector is polycarb, for it provides a very straight and sturdy connection so that the hoop will not bend at the connector. Polypro and HDPE may also be used in hoops that won’t quite work with polycarb inserts, and can make great connections as well.
As always, please feel free to contact us with additional questions. We are here to help at all points in your hoop making journey!
Amber Lane balances her hoop in front of the Flatirons in Boulder, CO.
Hi, I’m a Millennial. There, I said it. I’m glad we got that out of the way, because despite this culturally persecuted aspect of who I am, I am also a hooper. But what exactly does it mean to be a hooper ostensibly lost in the pool of often confused and downtrodden millennials? It means I have a home to turn to when I find myself feeling overwhelmed. When I’m craving connection. When I’m craving a sense of security – something that effectively escapes me frequently throughout the day when I begin thinking about the mountain of student debt weighing down on me. My hoop is always there to hug me while dancing away my worries, and having this as a tool has proven life-altering while trying to navigate these tempestuous gen-y waters.
We, as millennials, are facing countless struggles largely unheard of in previous generations. We are well on our way to becoming the most educated, yet most underpaid generation in history. On average, we are making about 10% less than the median wages reported in 2000 – and that was almost twenty years ago – which means that when inflation is taken into consideration, is absolutely abysmal. This wage gap, however, is not only reflected among college attendees. Many who didn’t attend college are experiencing an even greater wage adversity because of the decline in the various jobs they tend to take on like manufacturing, etc… While these financial and economic woes are significant, it is just as critical to recognize that gen-y is struggling with the highest levels of clinical depression, anxiety, and stress than any other generation did at the same age. On top of it all, we are in the midst of a shifting, volatile political atmosphere, and are continually criticized, gaslighted, and attacked by many people in older generations who claim we are lazy, entitled, self-absorbed… the list goes on. All of these factors, when combined, invariably lead to the identity crises many of us are experiencing.
So how do we deal when these realities come crashing down around us? We hoop, of course! Yet it is also important to keep in mind that many of us are not just hoopers – we are yogis, we meditate, we are music lovers and adventurers, we are teachers, we are travelers, and we have a thirst for knowledge. All of these activities and qualities have something tremendously important in common, though – community. The hoop community itself is especially incredible, and I have witnessed so many amazing things being a part of it over the last seven years. The sense of connection and acceptance that comes from being a part of this circle (pun intended ;), is unique and magical. We create instantaneous, loving connections with people from all walks of life, all over the world, simply because we all adore these small plastic circles. How entirely peculiar and enchanting? We lift each other up, offer our knowledge, and provide a space to truly let go of any misconceptions about who we think we are and should be, allowing us to ultimately be our truest selves. For within the unique flow of dancing with a hoop, we are able to experience a truly raw, authentic part ourselves that many of us never knew existed before we found hooping.
Hooping provides such a beautiful way to fill our cups and therapeutically address many emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual challenges and limitations both as an individual and as a society. Whether it assists with depression, weight loss, confidence, connection, etc…, our hoop is an amazing healing tool, and when we use it with this intention it has the ability to create focus and passion in our lives, extending far beyond the surface of simple play. It hones our reflexes and ability to find solutions, which are vital qualities in these tumultuous times. We have also continued to alter the inherent desire for wealth from one rooted in the material to one in the experiential, and while that is not exclusive to the spin community, there is definitely a correlation between the two. We continuously find ways to shift the paradigm we are living in as a generation, and being a part of a community such as hooping or spinning multiplies the motivation and inspiration we experience on a daily basis, thereby increasing our ability to create a better world to live in.
Navigating our place in the world as millennials can certainly be challenging given the backlash we experience from other generations while trying to thrive and carve a new path for society to walk. We have an advantage, however, when we surround ourselves with communities that inspire us to be our best selves. Underestimating the value of connection and its essential role in a prosperous society has proven a key reason we are experiencing such a turbulent era, but with this realization, we regain the power to re-connect with our fellow humans and show the world what it means to be compassionate and understanding. The equity we can create when we enter this mindset of connectedness is unparalleled. Hooping should not be taken for granted, no matter how far we may stray from it at various points in our lives. Even if we may wander from the physical practice at times, our tool belt remains more stocked because of it, which invariably betters the actual practice of being our best selves in everyday life. Remember your newfound tools, friends, and use them. This community is always here to support us when we need it.
Hey Hoopers and gonna’ be Bendy Babes (boys and girls!).
Do the words “I’m not flexible” or “I’ll never be flexible” ring a bell?
They do for me.
Despite what you’ve been told, or may have been telling yourself, being flexible is accessible to any one of us that wants to be flexible. The misconception here is if you haven’t been training since you were four, you will never make any progress now. How wrong that is!
Here’s my story. I was nineteen years old when I started training dance hoops and contortion. I had no experiencing in flexibility training or any knowledge of how my body “flowed”. I started from ground zero. What worked for me was having this realization that my body was merely made of knots. Knots that I had been ignoring for nineteen years, and each knot represented a part of my past. The more I worked on untying these knots the happier I was and the more flexible I became (in both mind and body, yoga jazz).
Upon the realization that I was flexible, my body became flexible.
As long as I worked towards untying those knots my body would loosen and bend into it’s new mold, that be touching my toes, going for full splits, or deep back bending. It took twelve uncomfortable months and many breakthrough moments but eventually I did touch my toes and as more time passed I saw my body accomplishing what I once thought impossible for myself.
And that will happen for you!
Hooping has changed the way I look at my health and potential. It has improved my cardio and coordination, strength and flexibility and inspired me to be in the best shape of my life.
Every milestone we pass, is another knot untied.
In this article I’ll be sharing tips and tricks on increasing flexibility to pull off some of those tricky hoop combos and yoga poses you want to perform. I wish you all the best in your bendy journey, keep practicing and keep playing – progress will happen! Let me know if you have any tips I may have missed, feel free to share them with the community in the comments section below.
1. Brainstorm and Visualize
Seeing is believing! Think of some of the kick ass flex poses that you want to work towards and visualize yourself doing them. It will create confidence in the poses. I’ve gone as far as to dreaming my way through the trouble shooting of balance and poise. You can doodle, draw or paint the poses you hope to one day accomplish. Having a picture to look at every day will keep you inspired.
Create a list for yourself of what you hope to accomplish in the new year.
The first yoga poses/asanas I chose were;
– Forearm Stand (foot hooping)
– Anything with a Back-bend!
– Dancers Pose
– Shoulder Stand to Tiger Pose (footing hooping and roll over)
My shoulder stand to tiger pose (foot hooping roll over) was something I had thought of doing for years but doubted I could. One night, after visualizing myself performing the roll over I was able to troubleshoot the dynamics and perform the trick.
Share your brainstorming with us in the comments section,
2. Join a Yoga Class
Yoga is pretty much accessible wherever you go. Search for studios in your area and check out the local teachers. Practitioners of an advanced yoga background are usually more than happy to give you pointers on your journey.
When I first moved to Australia I couldn’t afford to take yoga classes as much as I wanted to, so I signed up for a “work trade” program. The work trade programs ask for you to clean the studio and work reception tasks in trade for yoga classes. This program is available all over the world but is not often advertised. You may have to ask around and check in with multiple studios before you find the right fit. This is an alternative way you can seek mentor-ship on a budget.
Having a regular practice and studio will motivate you to make use of the tools available for yourself.
3. Accept Growing Phase
When you first start working towards a deeper practice understand that almost everything will feel weird and new to your body. It’s not about looking pretty or getting there the fastest, take your time and enjoy the plausible falls and shakes.
When working towards an advanced goal, set mini goals.
For example,
“The next time I practice I will hold for X seconds”
“Today I will try X yoga pose/ asana”
Remind yourself of how far you have come. Taking progress pictures is a great way to keep up with your training.
Take time and enjoy the knots you untie.
4. Bendy Friends and hoop
Having someone to stretch with will bring new energy into your practice and motivate you both to make progress in your training. Set play dates with your friends, gym dates, park dates, etc. It’s a great way to avoid repetitive practice.
You can challenge your friend and set goals together, or skill share your different experiences and specialties.
Acro Yoga is a great practice for improving your balance and coordination, join a class with your new best bendy friend and have fun!
Bring your hoop to stretch with you.
Flowing through the poses with and without a hoop will improve your balance and coordination. Try footing hooping through a series of yoga asanas or standing balance poses while knee hooping.
Not sure where to find like minded bendy babes? If you have a circus studio join one of the drop in classes and ask around. Look into yoga classes and workshop series featuring acro yoga, hooping, etc. Join local jams and put yourself out there! Don’t be afraid to ask for support when you need it.
5. Youtube
When in doubt, turn to the internet for never ending inspiration and videos (but don’t spend to much time “training” behind your screen). There is a never ending source of flexibility training videos on Youtube targeting the muscles groups you want. The internet is also a great place to find hooping tutorials to help break down some of the advances bendy poses you are going for.
Below I’ve link some of my favorite flexibility and training videos.
Short and sweet, where ever and when ever you can, stretch! Try stretching during your every day tasks, like brushing your teeth or when you’re in the shower (don’t fall, that’d be horrible). You can stretch while you’re waiting for the bus or cooking a meal. It’s great to keep your body warmed up and those five minutes will make a difference in your practice.
