Hula hooping is becoming more and more popular as a weight-loss and toning workout. It's less like exercise, more like play—and you can do it with the kids!

Even Michele Obama is hula-hooping!

Sounds like fun, right? Some gyms offer hooping classes, (like the Hoopilates class in the video). Or, you can try a hooping DVD to learn some basic moves.

Here's why hula hooping is such great exercise:

  • It's a great cardiovascular exercise and gets the heart rate up.
  • It strengthens the core.
  • It tones the waist, arms, legs, and hips.
  • It enhances spinal flexibility.
  • It improves coordination.

It is suggested that you use a weighted hoop for exercise, which you can find at most fitness/sports stores or at Amazon.com.

Here are some basic hula hoop exercises to get you started:

To tone arms: Extend your arm to the side. Roll the hoop around your arm in circular motion. Keep the hoop moving around your arm.

To tone legs: Lie on your back. With one leg perpendicular to the floor, or at a slight angle, start the hoop spinning around your extended leg. Keep it spinning.

To tone waist: Stand with one foot in front of the other. Rotate hoop around your waist, shifting your weight back and forth between your front and back foot to keep the hula hoop moving. Your hips should be rocking rather than making a circular movement. Keeping the hoop twirling around your waist.

Would you exercise with a hula hoop?

 

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