Chances are as a kid you had a hula hoop, and treated it as fun and not exercise. Well, you can still do that now! Add some fun and variety into your fitness routine with an updated, adult version of that waist-whittling throwback: a weighted hula hoop! Adding them to your workout allows you to gain the following health benefits:
1. They Add an Element of Fun to Your Workout
Nothing kills your motivation to exercise more than a boring workout–especially when you are just starting a fitness routine. Conquer exercise boredom by using a “toy” from your childhood to exercise. Weighted hula hoops are an easy way to add fun to your workout, and you will be more likely to keep it up. Exercise shouldn’t be boring or seen as a punishment, but as a means of moving your body in a way you enjoy.
2. They Burn Calories & Tone Muscles
Hula-hooping tones several different muscle groups such as your arms, waist, abdomen, glutes, and legs. You are moving the entire time, resulting in calorie burn and a strengthened core. While hooping you can incorporate other toning exercises such as lunges and squats for additional body toning and calorie burn.
Hoops come in a variety of weights, ranging from 1- 5 lbs. The lighter hoops will take more energy and movement on your part to keep elevated. That means your workout may not be as long when you first start, as you will need to build up your endurance. The heavier hoops stay up easier because they keep their momentum, meaning you can work out longer and thus keep your heart rate elevated for longer.
3. They Reduce Stress
The stress that results from being bombarded with cortisol inducing thoughts and experiences can really take a toll on the body. Finding a way to release that stress is vital to your overall mental and physical health. Exercising is a great option for this, as it reduces cortisol (the body’s stress hormone) and releases endorphins (the body’s feel-good chemicals). Maintaining the proper form and keeping the hula hoop from falling to the ground requires concentration, which allows your brain to take a break from focusing on stressful thoughts.
4. They Are Inexpensive & Versatile
Weighted hula hoops can be bought online or at many stores that sell fitness equipment, and range in price from around $10-$50, depending on the type you buy. They don’t take up too much room, and many also come apart for easy transport & storage.
The hula hoops can also be used to do a variety of lifted arm spins, as well as functioning as stability for standing leg lifts or other exercise positions that you may struggle to balance with. As your balance and endurance improve, you can also throw in some plie squats while you are hooping, or lunges while you are spinning the hoop above your head with your arms. They are apartment-friendly, as you get a great workout without jumping around and making noise that could bother your neighbors.
Whether you made a personal promise to start exercising, or your current fitness routine feels stale, weighted hula hoops are a fun, multi-muscle toning addition to your healthy lifestyle.
