Exercise can involve more than just a walk around the block! When is the last time you had some fun with a hula hoop? Hula hoops are back and rolling right around to the forefront. Let's find out what all this "hoopla" is about! 

Yes, you can! You can burn up to 300 calories in 30 minutes of hooping! It works all your muscle groups, including your heart, improves circulation, increases metabolism, and provides mental stimulation! Who doesn't need that? 

Did you know there were weighted hoops now? Weighted hoops are bigger and heavier than traditional ones and are available at most sporting good stores. 

In an article from the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Edward Laskowski says that to make the most out of your hooping and avoid injury, "You may want to avoid using weighted hula hoops or traditional hula hoops if you have a history of back problems."

According to Peter McCall, a spokesperson with the American Council on Exercise, "...the hoop should reach somewhere between your waist and chest when it's resting vertically on the ground. The weight of the hoop is up to you. The smaller and lighter the hoop, the more energy it takes to keep the hoop going. The bigger and heavier the hoop, the easier it is to keep going — and the more likely you'll be able to hoop for longer periods of time. To get started, hold the hoop against your back, slightly above your waist. Put one foot ahead of the other, then push the hoop around your waist — shifting your weight back and forth from one foot to the other to keep the hoop moving."

So what are you waiting for...start hooping it up! Yes, you can! You have many more miles to go!

*Quoted information by Edward R. Laskowski, M.D  taken from Mayo Clinic