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| Picture By Alyssa Banks |
Hoopdancing, also known as Hula hooping has been around for a very long time; it was generally used as a fun recreational toy by children, but in many countries it is now fast becoming a fitness workout for all age groups.
Physical Benefits:
* Builds core strength
* Tones your entire body
* Provides an intense cardiovascular workout
* No to Low Impact
* Increases energy
* Develops balance and coordination
* Increases flexibility
Mental/Emotional Benefits:
* Clears and quiets the mind
* Reduces stress
* Improves self confidence
* Generates joy and laughter
* Improves one's mood
* Opens up creative self expression
I came across this video on Hoopnotica.com and was instantly hooked. Sounds like the perfect excuse for me to get fit.
One of the things they stress on is the importance of the size and weight of your hoop. So no good using one of the little plastic ones you would find at Toys R Us; and the good quality ones can cost around $40 so I figured I will go about making myself one of these fabulous hoops. Basically the rule goes, the larger the hoop the easier it is. So a good adult sized hoop should stand up somewhere between your bellybutton and your chest. I found a few good websites which have detailed instructions on how one might go about making one:
I can't wait to have my beautifully colourful rainbow hoop to get started! ^^
And to finish, a bit of useless information for you: The record for the most hoops twirled simultaneously is 105, set by Jin Linlin, on October 28, 2007. Wish I could see THAT on tape!
