Hula hooping has evolved from a fun recess activity to a viral form of exercise that is sweeping the nation. It is a fun and dynamic form of physical activity that has been around for centuries. The modern hula hoop which is made from plastic tubing, became popular in the 1950s as a children’s toy. However, in recent years, hula hooping has evolved into a more mature form of physical activity and performance art. Hoopers now perform a variety of techniques and styles to create visually stunning and athletic performances. Weighted hula hooping is a variation of hula hooping that has become popular in recent years. What does a weighted hula hoop do? Keep reading to find out!
How is a weighted hula hoop different from a traditional hula hoop?
A weighted hula hoop differs from a traditional hula hoop in that it is heavier, typically weighing between 1 and 2 pounds. This added weight provides additional resistance as the hoop is spun, which can lead to a more intense workout.
Studies have shown that hula hooping can provide a cardiovascular workout and can help tone muscles in the waist, hips, and abs. Adding weight to the hula hoop can increase the intensity of this workout, potentially leading to greater fitness benefits.
For example, a study published in the International Journal of Exercise Science found that participants who used a weighted hula hoop for 6 minutes had an average heart rate increase of 10 beats per minute compared to their baseline, indicating a moderate intensity workout.
It’s important to note that adding weight to a hula hoop may also increase the risk of injury. Please keep this in mind. This is the reason why I personally prefer a dance hula hoop over a weighted hula hoop. While there are some hula hoops on the market that can reach up to 8 pounds, those should be avoided because they can cause injuries. Avoid hoops that weigh over 2 lbs. They can cause serious bruising, be painful to use, and open you up to a higher risk of injury.
Visit the article below to learn about the different kinds of hula hoops and their uses:
What is a weighted hula hoop?
Weighted hula hoops are hula hoops that have added weight, usually in the form of small weights or beads. The added weight makes the hoop heavier, which can make it more challenging to twirl and can provide a more intense workout. The added weight also creates a different sensation when hooping. The hoop moves slower and has a more pronounced “thump” when it hits the body.
- Increased resistance for a more intense workout
- Improved core stability
- Targeted toning of waist and hip muscles
- Effective calorie burn
- Improved posture and balance
- Reduce stress
- Boost cardiovascular health
- Fun and engaging full-body workout.
Weighted hula hoops have several benefits for those who use them. The added weight of the hoop increases the resistance and the effort required to twirl it, which can lead to an increase in cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance. This can be especially beneficial for those who are looking to increase their physical fitness levels or for those who are looking for a more challenging workout.
Hula hooping can improve core strength, balance, and coordination
Weighted hula hoops also offer benefits for core muscles. The added weight of the hoop requires the use of more core muscles to keep the hoop moving. This can lead to an increase in core strength and stability. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are looking to improve their overall fitness levels or for those who are looking to target specific areas of their body.
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Additionally, weighted hula hoops can be beneficial for those who are looking to improve their balance and coordination. The added weight of the hoop can make it more challenging to twirl, which requires the use of more muscle groups and a greater level of coordination to keep the hoop moving. This can help improve balance and coordination, which can be particularly beneficial for those who are recovering from an injury or for those who are looking to improve their overall fitness levels.
BURN MORE FAT WITH YOUR HULA HOOP WORKOUT ?
A creative outlet that can relieve stress
Weighted hula hoops can also be beneficial for stress relief. The repetitive motion of hula hooping can have a meditative effect, helping to clear the mind and reduce stress. The added weight of the hoop can also provide a sense of accomplishment and can be a form of self-care, helping to improve overall well-being.
In addition to the physical benefits, weighted hula hoops can also be beneficial for mental and emotional well-being. The added weight of the hoop can help to create a sense of accomplishment and can be a form of self-care. Hula hooping can also be a social activity and can help to connect with others and create a sense of community. Hooping events are a great way to meet other hoopers, share skills, learn new tricks, and perform together.
Disadvantages of weighted hula hooping:
However, it’s important to note that weighted hula hoops can also have some negative effects. One of the most significant negative effects is the risk of injury. The added weight of the hoop can increase the risk of injury if the hoop is not used properly or if the user is not in good physical condition. It is important to start slowly and work up to using a weighted hoop, to use proper technique and to listen to your body.
- Increased weight may cause discomfort or strain
- May be too heavy for some users
- Increased risk of injury if used improperly
- Potential for bruising or discomfort on the waist and hips
- More difficult to control than lighter hula hoops
- Requires more space to use
- May not be suitable for people with back, hip, or shoulder injuries
- May not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility
- Increased cost compared to lighter hula hoops
- Can be difficult to transport and store due to size and weight.
Another negative effect of weighted hula hoops is that they can be harder to control than traditional hula hoops. Weighted hula hooping, also known as fitness hooping, involves using a heavier hula hoop for exercise and fitness purposes. While this type of hooping can provide a more intense workout and increase the benefits of hula hooping, it also comes with its own set of risks and potential dangers.
The added weight can cause strain on the muscles and joints.
One potential danger of weighted hula hooping is the risk of injury. The added weight of the hoop can cause strain on the muscles and joints, particularly in the back, shoulders, hips, knees, and wrists. This is particularly true for beginners who are not yet accustomed to the movement and rhythm of hula hooping, or for those who use a hoop that is too heavy for their current fitness level. If you have arthritis or other joint problems, weighted hula hooping may not be a good option.
Additional risks
Another potential danger of weighted hula hooping is that it may be too intense for some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions or injuries. For example, people with back or neck problems may find hula hooping uncomfortable or even painful. People with wrist, elbow or shoulder problems may also experience discomfort or pain. It is important to consult with a doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise program, particularly if you have any pre-existing health conditions or injuries.
Weighted hula hooping may also increase the risk of falling, particularly if the hoop is too heavy or if proper technique is not used. This can lead to injuries such as strains, sprains, and fractures.
Finally, weighted hula hooping may not be suitable for people who are looking to build muscle mass. While hula hooping can tone and strengthen the core muscles, it may not provide enough resistance to build significant muscle mass.
Weighted hula hoops may not be suitable for everyone. Always listen to your body and adjust your routine accordingly.
It is important to keep in mind that weighted hula hooping is not suitable for everyone and it is important to listen to your body and adjust the intensity and frequency of your hula hooping routine accordingly. It is also important to consult with a doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise program, particularly if you have any pre-existing health conditions or injuries.
Knowledge is power and I’m glad that you are aware of the benefits and risks associated with weighted hula hooping. If you still have your heart set on using a weighted hula hoop, here are some tips to get you started. Remember to always warm up before you start any kind of workout. This will prepare your body for the work ahead and help prevent injuries.
HOW MY FIRST WEEK OF WEIGHTED HULA HOOPING WENT – BIG BRUISES, PAIN AND A LOT OF FUN
Here are the steps to safely use a weighted hula hoop:
- Choose the right size and weight: Make sure to choose a weighted hula hoop that is appropriate for your height and body type. It’s also important to start with a lighter weight.
- Warm up: Before using the weighted hula hoop, warm up with some light cardio exercises such as jumping jacks or jogging to get the blood flowing and prevent injury.
- Proper posture: Stand with feet hip-width apart and engage your core muscles. Keep your back straight and avoid slouching.
- Start spinning: Begin by spinning the hoop around your waist, using your hips to keep it moving. Gradually increase the speed and intensity of the hoop as you get more comfortable.
- Keep it low: To reduce the risk of injury, keep the hoop at waist height or lower. Avoid raising it above your head or tossing it high into the air.
- Switch it up: To challenge different muscles and prevent boredom, try different hooping movements such as hooping in a standing position, walking while hooping, or hooping in different directions.
- Stop if it hurts: If you experience any pain or discomfort while using the weighted hula hoop, stop immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
By following these steps, individuals can safely use a weighted hula hoop to get a fun and effective workout while reducing the risk of injury. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid overdoing it, especially when starting out.
Celebrities and athletes hula hoop too!
Weighted hula hooping has gained popularity as a form of exercise and workout in recent years, and several celebrities and athletes have been known to incorporate it into their fitness routines. Here are a few examples:
- Pink: The singer has been known to use hula hooping as part of her cardio routine and has even incorporated it into her performances.
- Bee Varga: The professional hooper, mum, and fitness instructor utilizes her hoops to get into the best shape of her life.
- Britney Spears: The singer has been known to use hula hooping as part of her dance routines and has incorporated it into her fitness regimen.
These are just a few examples of celebrities and athletes who use weighted hula hoops as a form of exercise and workout. The popularity of weighted hula hooping continues to grow, and many people are discovering its benefits for overall fitness, weight loss, and stress relief.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while weighted hula hooping can provide a more intense workout and increase the benefits of hula hooping, it also comes with its own set of risks and potential dangers. These include the risk of injury, being too intense for some individuals, hard on the joints, increasing the risk of falling, and difficulty to build muscle mass. It is important to start with a lightweight hoop, gradually increase the weight as your fitness level improves and consult with a doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise program.
My very first fitness style hoop was a weighted hula hoop. I had found Bee Varga’s hula hooping channel on YouTube and couldn’t wait to get started. First I rushed to the store and bought a hula hoop from the toy section, but I couldn’t even spin it around my waist. I felt super discouraged and worried that hooping “wasn’t for me.” We immediately ordered the highest rated weighted hula hoop on Amazon. I was thrilled when it arrived and appreciated the fact that I could spin it around my waist after a few attempts. I experienced lots of bruising during my first two weeks and decided to order an HDPE dance hula hoop. Getting a proper fitting hoop made all the difference in the world.
Stay tuned because I’m going to write future articles about hula hoops.
Have you ever hula hooped before? What kind of hula hoop do you like to use? If not, do you have any questions about hula hooping? Please comment below to connect!
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