Getting Started
So you want to get started hooping? I would say the most important thing you could do for yourself is to purchase 2 hula hoops from a reputable hoop maker. Do not try using a cheap plastic, kid’s hoop or you will set yourself up for failure as these hoops are too small and light for a beginner. Your first beginner hula hoop hoop should be both large and heavy. A general rule is that the bigger and heavier the hula hoop the easier it is to on body hoop. By on body hooping I mean waist, hip, leg, and shoulder hooping. A standard beginner hula hoop is most often made of polyethylene tubing with a 3/4 inch diameter It’s usually 44 inches in outer diameter, weighs about 1.5lbs Do your research and look around on the internet. A typical beginner hula hoop costs $30-$50.
You should also plan on purchasing a smaller and lighter hoop for off body moves. Off body moves are moves that involve manipulating the hoop without using your core. Moves such lasso, and hand spins are considered off body moves. A typical off body hoop for a beginner would be one made of a lighter and skinnier tubing called polypro. A good size for a beigninger is a 38-35 inch outer diameter. You want something that is going to be light and fast.
Polypro hoops are typically $20-$50. Also do not be afraid to contact the sellers and ask questions.
Sometimes hoop companies will offer a beginner packages, which sell you a heavy beginner hoop as well as a lighter dance hoop. Do your research, and shop around.
Learning the Basics
You’ve purchased your hoops and are ready to get started, but where do you begin? The answer is simple. Youtube. Yep, that’s right, I learned to hoop from Youtube. All you have to do is search and be as specific as you want. As soon as you hit the search button you will find dozens of videos for free. Find a hooper that suits your personality and just jump in. I promise you will have fun. One of my favorite online instructors is Deanne Love. She is a hoop goddess from Australia, and she really knows her stuff. Her teaching style is very encouraging and motivational. You can find many of her videos free on youtube or you can choose to follow her at http://hooplovers.tv/. HoopLovers is an excellent site where you can purchase online hooping courses for a reasonable price.`