How long has it been since you’ve picked up a hula-hoop? If you’re like most people, probably not since your 12th birthday. But hula-hoops are no longer relegated to the realm of children’s’ toys or jumping circus dogs. Grown-ups are getting into the hip-swing of things for one of the newest fitness trends of 2012.
Hula-hooping is a fun variation on a regular cardio regimen and can be done right in the back yard, in a park or at the beach. Fitness hula-hoops available in stores and online weigh about two pounds and are approximately 45-inches in diameter. This forces the exerciser to work against greater resistance. Researchers have found that an hour of hula-hooping with these newer hoops burns more than 400 calories for an average woman, on par with an average cardio class. For an added bonus, the hula-hooping motion concentrates attention on the core, helping shape the abs, which are often difficult to target.
It’s an excellent work out for those who have a hard time regularly getting to the gym. Smaller hoops can be used for arms and legwork. Travel often? There are travel hoops that break down into smaller sections and fit neatly into carry-on luggage.
Hula-hoop classes and celebrity clientele are popping up all over Southern California. Famous faces that have been seen hula-hooping recently include Marisa Tomei, Olivia Wilde and Zooey Deschanel. For beginners, DVDs and YouTube how-to’s are also popping up.
So whether you’re looking to get back into working out or just looking for some variety, think about going full circle, back to a time when exercise was simply child’s play.