Hula Hoops: A Connection to Our Childhood

We are bonded by big plastic hoops.

The hot sun is slowly sinking and I am in my backyard under the spreading pecan trees blissfully hooping. I’ve gotten into a easy, smooth rhythm with my arms reaching toward the sky. I feel a sense of freedom as my body picks up the rhythm and seems to operate on its own without much effort from me.

Just about everybody I knew when I was growing up had a hula hoop. I remember friends and cousins in the yard yelling encouragement, suggestions to go faster and cheers when you finally kept it spinning around your middle instead of your ankles.

There are now adult hooping groups and I’ve been to a few of those. But for me, I like solitary hooping. It’s a short trip to take my huge hand-made hoop out of the car and head to the back yard.

Hooping an outside activity unless you want all your knick-knacks knocked off the counter. That’s the cat’s job.

It sounds more complicated than it really is. Like riding a bicycle, once you get it, you won’t forget it. If you are new to hooping or if you need a refresher course, here are some tips.

1. Hold the hoop around your waist with the back against your back.
2. Feet are about hip-width apart with one foot slightly in front of the other. It doesn’t matter which foot.
3. Keep knees slightly bent and flexible.
4. Back should be held straight.
5. Hold the hoop toward the right and then spin it to the left.
6. To keep the hoop spinning, shift your weight from right foot to left foot rocking your hips as you shift your weight. Feel the motion of the hoop and try to imitate that rhythm as the hoop rolls around your body. When the hoop hits your stomach push out a little and as the hoop hits your back, push back.

I find it very relaxing. The rhythm is soothing.

You use a lot of those core abdominal muscles.

If you are trying to use your grandchildren’s hoop and it’s not working out for you, don’t despair. You just need a bigger hoop.

You can make your own if you can’t find one you like. The larger ones are easier to operate. There are instructions on the internet.

My hoop is hand-made that I bought at a craft fair. It is big and heavy, measuring 48 inches across, making for a slow, smooth ride. It is made out of pvc tubing, taped all around with colorful, plastic tape.

Get busy.

Happy Hooping!