Weighted Hula-Hoops are Hula-Hoops designed for exercising; they are designed to be heavier than a standard child’s Hula-Hoop that is intended for play. Weighted Hula-Hoops may also be slightly larger in diameter, because they are intended for adults. Using a weighted Hula-Hoop for exercising can be a great way to get aerobic exercise, have fun, and lose weight, in addition to drastically increasing the strength of the abdominal muscles.
In general, weighted Hula-Hoops are between 1 and 5 pounds (0.45 to 2.2 kilograms), though 2 and 3 pound (0.9 to 1.4 kg) weighted Hula-Hoops seem to be the most popular. It is nearly always recommended that one begin with a lighter weighted hoop, for a few reasons. The first is that it will be easier to exercise aerobically with a lighter Hula-Hoop. Even though a heavier hoop may be more challenging, one may only be able to Hula-Hoop for a few minutes with it, whereas one may be able to exercise aerobically for 20 minutes or more with a lighter hoop.
In addition, it is likely that weighted Hula-Hoops will cause some irritation, and even possibly bruising around the hips and midsection. Beginning with a lighter hoop can help to prevent this bruising, and help one get used to hooping for exercise. Then, once physical fitness and endurance has increased a bit, it is possible to move up to a heavier weighted Hula-Hoop.
Many weighted Hula-Hoops are collapsible, which can make them easier to store or even to travel with. Some also offer removable sections, to allow the user to increase or decrease the weight of the Hula-Hoop as needed. For instance, one might make the hoop lighter if he or she wants to focus on aerobics for the day, but if the goal of the day is to increase abdominal strength, one might add weight to the Hula-Hoop.
Keep in mind that exercising with weighted Hula-Hoops is intended to be fun. If the hoop that one purchases is too heavy, it might be too challenging or frustrating. In that case, simply switch to a lighter hoop, or even a plastic one for children until one gets the hang of the hooping motion. One may also choose to supplement a hooping fitness routine with other types of aerobic exercise, such as jogging or brisk walking, to ensure that the whole body is receiving benefits.