Introduction -:
Most of us have gained a few pounds by satisfying our evening cravings with burgers, pizzas, and all those crispy, oily snacks. Are you also one of them? If so, then you must shed those extra fats and take a step forward to a healthy life.
Sticking to a daily workout schedule might be difficult. So here’s something different for you! Looking for a fun, simple, and affordable way to get burn some calories? Just say hello to your new best friend for the workout journey– the hula hoop!
Yes, this is the same ring you used to spin around your tummy while playing as a kid. But, it is not just for fun anymore! Rather, it is a super cool way to move your body, get strong, and maybe even say bye-bye to some extra weight. It can actually slim you down, tone up, and help feel more energetic.
So, let’s scroll through the swirly world of hula hoop workouts!
Which Hula Hoop is Best For Your Hoopy Buddy?
As you know that the shoes come in different sizes, hula hoops have various measurements too. So, before you start spinning these rings, it is important to know that there are basically three main types of hoops. So, it is good to know which one will be your best pal during your weight loss journey.
First, you must choose the right size hoop for your body according to your skill level. This will really make a big difference.
To find the perfect-sized hula hoop, here is a good trick. You need to stand it up next to you. It should reach somewhere between your belly button and the top of your hip bone. But if you have a longer or shorter tummy area, you might want to go a little bigger or smaller.
The Regular Hoop: Perfect for beginners!
These are the classic hoops, which are light and simple. They are best for those who are just starting. As they are not heavy, so you can really get the hang of the spinning motion. Usually, the bigger the hoop, the easier it is to keep it moving and going. So, the general rule of thumb to find the best size is that when you set the hoop up, it should reach somewhere between your waist and your chest.
The Weighted Hoop: Best When You Want a Little Extra Hug
Now, these hoops are slightly bigger and heavier than the regular ones. The extra weight in these rings gives your body more resistance as it makes your body work a bit harder, especially your tummy muscles. It also helps to build core strength faster. Some people actually find these easier to start with because the weight makes them a little more stable when you spin them around your body. But remember, don’t rush into using this one! Get good at the regular spin first before you try these heavier buddies.
The Polypro Hoop: The Speedy Superstar!
These are for more advanced hoopers who are ready to zoom and groove! They are lighter and bouncier than the other two, so you can do faster spins. Plus, you can even move the hoop around different parts of your body. Although it takes a bit more practice, but you can do some really cool moves!
Let’s Try Some Fun Moves with Hula Hoops!
Okay, now for the exciting part – the workouts! As you have got the perfect size for your body, it is time to put it to work. Here are a few yet effective moves you can try to burn calories, strengthen your core, and get your heart pumping.
1. Waist Hooping – The Classic Spin
Muscles You’re Waking Up: Your tummy, your arms, and even your legs.
This is the “hello” of hula hooping! Stand tall with your feet a little apart, like you are standing tall and proud. Then, hold your hoop around your waist. Now, give it a good push to start it spinning, and then move your hips forward and backward or side to side (not in circles!). Keep your chest up and your shoulders relaxed. And, if the hoop starts to slide down, just wiggle your hips more quick and faster!
Want to make it a little more challenging? Try changing your stance to keep things interesting:
Forward Stance: Keep one foot in front of the other, like you are walking, and then move your hips.
Side Stance: For this, spread your feet wide apart, and then move your hips side to side.
First, you must try doing this for about 30 to 60 seconds. Then, stop the hoop and try spinning it the other direction! It might feel a bit weird at first, but it is great for working all your tummy muscles evenly.
2. Waist Hooping – The “Cross” Challenge
Muscles You’re Saying “Hello Again!” To: Your core, arms, and legs.
Once you are a pro at the regular waist hoop, you can add a little action of your arm now! So, now stand with your feet together and hold your arms straight out to the sides. Your body should make a “T” shape. Then, start spinning that hoop with your tummy and try to keep your arms out. You have to keep your palms forward and your chest open. This position engages your shoulders and upper body more.
It might feel a bit wobbly, but it really makes your tummy work harder to keep the hoop up. Try this for about 60 to 120 seconds, and then spin the hoop the other way.
3. Waist Hooping with Ballet Legs
Muscles Getting a Good Workout: Core, arms, and legs.
Want to feel graceful and strong? It’s time to dance! With your feet together, get that hoop spinning around your waist. Now, pick one leg and point your toes straight out in front of you. Hold it there for about 20 spins. Then, point your toe out to the side for another 20 spins. Finally, point it behind you for 20 spins, and then bring your foot back to the starting position.
You can even try lifting your pointed foot off the ground a little to make your tummy work even harder to burn the calories! Do this a few times on one leg, and then switch to the other leg. Remember to keep your chest up high!
4. Squat While Hooping
Muscles Saying “Ouch, but in a good way!”: Core, arms, legs, and your bum (glutes).
Now, it’s time to work with your legs and booty! So, stand and spread your feet a bit wider than your shoulders and get that hoop spinning as usual. Now, slowly bend your knees and lower your hips down like you are sitting in a chair. Always keep your chest straight up and avoid leaning forward.
Then, slowly stand back up and repeat! Just try to do 10 to 15 of these squats while keeping the hoop spinning. You can even try different kinds of squats – with your feet closer together, wider apart, or even turned out like a sumo wrestler! And yes, don’t forget to spin the hoop the other way too!
5. The 360 Spin – Let’s Go Round and Round!
Muscles Feeling the Twist: Core, arms, and legs.
Okay, let’s add a spin – literally! Get your hoop spinning around your waist. Now, shift your weight onto one foot and use your other foot to take small steps in a circle. You have to turn your whole body around in the opposite direction that the hoop is spinning. First, you must start with small, quick steps until you get the hang of it.
Try to go all the way around in a full circle while keeping that hoop up! You can do this for about 60 to 120 seconds. And after this, try spinning the ring in the other direction! This position really works well for your heart pumping and body balance.
Some Extra Fun and a Little Tricky Moves
Once you are a super hooper, you can try these cool moves too:
Hula Hooping Around the Neck: It takes a bit of practice. Here, you have to gently spin the hoop around your neck.
Hula Hooping Around the Knees: In this move, you have to bend your knees and use your leg muscles to keep the hoop spinning.
The Vortex: This is a more advanced move. To do this, you have to lift up the hoop from your waist to your head. And then, bring it back down again while keeping it spinning. It is really beneficial for your core, shoulders, and arms!
Why Hula Hooping is So Good for You?
Still wondering if spinning a hoop can really help with weight loss? Here’s why it works:
Burns Calories builds a Strong Core improves Balance and Coordination boosts Heart Health increases Mobility affordable and Portable
Hoopy Takeaway!
So, if you are looking for a fun and different way to move your body, get stronger, and maybe even lose a little weight without emptying your piggy bank, give hula hooping a try! It is a fantastic full-body workout that’s also great for your brain and your balance.
Then what else are you waiting for? Why not grab a hoop and get the whole family in on the fun? Just pick up a hoop and give it a spin!
Now go ahead, spin that hoop, and let your fitness journey be full of smiles and circles!
