What do you think of when you see a hula hoop? When most people think of a hula hoop, they think of a kid’s toy that is twirled about your waist. When I see a hula hoop, I see endless dance, fun, and health benefits.
Hoop dance is described on hooprevolution.com as, a blend of dancing with “hula hooping”. The hoop travels up, down and off the body to create an athletic and expressive modern dance form.” It is a beautiful and unique style of dance.
There are many benefits to hoop dancing, it’s a fun activity and a full body workout! Hula hooping can work as many as 30 of your body’s muscles. This include muscles in your arms, legs, thighs, chest, back, and of course your waist and stomach. Hooping on a regular basis can whittle your waist and strengthen your stomach muscles. Hula hooping burns 400 calories an hour, that’s about 7 calories per minute! It also is good for your heart, improves your spine’s strength and flexibility, improves hand eye coordination, and increases your mood!
Hula Hooping can also hone your mind; it improves self-confidence, reduces stress, nurtures creative self-expression, and encourages a positive outlook on life and a more peaceful mind. Hooping is a form of moving meditation. Like yoga, it gives you a chance to go into the body and out of mind. “Hooping provides an ecstatic release that is unique and difficult to come by” (hooprevolution.com).
I started hooping about 9 months ago and my life has not been the same since. I fell in love with hula hooping the moment I began. I have lost 10lbs since I started hula hooping and my core is so much more toned. I noticed a change in my mindset as well. I am happier and more in tune with myself. I lose myself in my hoop. Whoever thought a child’s toy could do so much?
I challenge you to look up hoop dance video. Search Google, Youtube, etc. If you have never heard or seen hoop dancing before then you are in for a treat. Then go find a hula hoop and try it out! You mind find that you quite enjoy it!
Photo from IUP’s facebook page, taken at IUP day during September