You must be familiar with hula hooping as your childhood pastime. But did you know it can boost your health and fitness levels? Swivelling a hula hoop around your waist in a rhythmic motion is a great way to engage multiple muscle groups, enhance your coordination and balance, and improve your cardiovascular health. In this article, we list the health benefits of hula hooping and provide practical tips on how to get started on this exciting fitness journey.
Health Benefits of Hula Hooping
Cardiovascular Fitness
Hula hooping provides an excellent cardiovascular workout that elevates the heart rate and enhances circulation. Regular hula hooping sessions can strengthen the heart, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Core Strength and Stability
The continuous movement of hula hooping requires constant engagement of the core muscles, including the abdominals, obliques, and lower back. This leads to increased core strength, stability, and toning of the midsection.
Calorie Burning
Another benefit of hula hooping is its effective calorie-burning quality that can help you achieve your weight loss goals. Compared to other exercises of high intensity, hula hooping burns calories at a rate very similar to a vigorous cardio workout.
Based on findings from a 2015 study, hooping, particularly with a weighted hula hoop, might be the suitable exercise regimen if you aim to reduce inches around your waist and hips.
Also Read: Circuit Training for Fitness: Expert Lists Its Benefits And Purpose
Improved Coordination and Balance
Improving hula hooping skills requires coordination between the hips, core, and limbs, leading to better balance and body awareness. Hence, regular practice can enhance coordination skills and benefit performance in various physical activities and sports.
Stress Relief and Mood Enhancement
Did you know engaging in rhythmic movements like hula hooping can have a calming effect on the mind and body? The release of endorphins during exercise also contributes to a positive mood and overall sense of well-being.
How to Start Hula Hooping
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Choose the Right Hoop
Select a hoop that is appropriately sized and weighted for your skill level and body type. Beginners may prefer larger, heavier hoops, while more advanced hoopers may opt for smaller, lighter hoops for increased manoeuvrability.
Find a Suitable Space
Choose a spacious, open area with plenty of room to move freely without obstacles. A flat surface, such as grass or hardwood flooring is ideal for smooth hoop rotation and minimising the risk of injury.
Also Read: From Pilates To Swimming: Expert Lists Low-Impact Exercises Suited For All Fitness Levels
Master the Basic Technique
Stand with your feet hip-width apart and hold the hoop around your waist with both hands. Give the hoop a gentle spin in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction and sway your hips rhythmically to keep the hoop in motion. Focus on maintaining a steady rhythm and relaxed posture as you practise the basic hula hooping technique.
Practice Consistently
Like any skill, mastering hula hooping requires practice and dedication. As your skills improve, you can gradually increase the duration of your practice sessions. You can even experiment with different movements and tricks to keep your workouts engaging and challenging.
Bottomline
Hula hooping offers a wide range of health benefits and serves as a playful and effective way to stay active and fit. Whether you're a novice or an experienced hula hooper, adding hula hooping to your fitness regimen can bring enthusiasm, diversity, and liveliness to your workouts.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your expert before starting any fitness routine, especially if you are dealing with any injury.]